Quarterback Jeff Garcia was released Saturday, the surprise chop of 22 player cuts on 53-man roster day around the league.
Garcia, 39, was hired in April to push Russell, if not for the starting job, then to teach the former No. 1 overall draft pick how to be a dedicated NFL quarterback in his third season.
"I think first and foremost we are committed to Jamarcus Russell as our starter," Raiders coach Tom Cable said. "He's our guy."