The Facts: Russell pleaded not guilty to a charge of illegal drug possession Tuesday in Alabama. Russell, 24, is a former LSU star who was released by Oakland after being the No. 1 draft choice in 2007. He entered the plea in court in Mobile.
Diehards Line:Russell is charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, codeine syrup. He was released by the Raiders in May after three disappointing seasons with the team. He had been paid about $36.4 million through last season and was still owed $3 million at the time of his release. The Raiders have filed a grievance seeking $9.55 million from Russell in what they say was paid as salary advances for the 2010-12 seasons. His current legal issues all be ensure an extended leave from the NFL.