If the Raiders had expected rookie quarterback JaMarcus Russell to catapult them into contention in the AFC West, it's time they altered their plans. With each day the No. 1 overall draft pick fails to throw a pass at camp, it becomes less likely he will make a contribution this season.

Contract talks between the Raiders and Russell's agent have stalled. Two weeks into training camp, there are rumblings the holdout could extend into September. The two sides are talking, but the process has been described as "ugly."

Russell has missed two weeks of practice and meetings he can't get back. Even if the holdout ended today, he would be hard-pressed to be ready to play by October.


Digging in in New York

Don't expect talks between the other holdout first-round pick, the Jets' Darrelle Revis, to be resolved quickly. The Jets want Revis to sign a six-year deal, but Revis wants five years and is not budging. Those close to the University of Pittsburgh cornerback say he is entrenched and would just as soon go back into the draft next year - when he likely would be a top-10 pick - than take the Jets' current offer.

Strange days in K.C.



If the season starts and Johnson isn't in Kansas City, expect this team to tumble. The Chiefs would be lucky to win six games without Johnson.

Unhappy late starters

Before training camp began, the Broncos and the 49ers talked to the league about starting camp earlier. Under league rules, teams can start camp only 15 days before their first preseason game. Monday night's game between the teams is the final game of the opening week of preseason games.


Around the league
