Russell registered 33 tackles (20 solo), one defensed pass and one fumble recovery across 16 regular-season games in 2024. After playing on 44 and 68 defensive snaps in his first two seasons, Russell was in on 236 plays from scrimmage in 2024 while also seeing his most extensive involvement yet on special teams (332 snaps). Russell filled a rotational role in the linebackers corps behind Lavonte David, and he was at his best down the stretch while recording between three and five tackles in eight of his last nine contests. Russell will be a restricted free agent come the new league year in March, meaning the Buccaneers will have the ability to match any offer put in front of him by another team.
Russell is considered active ahead of Sunday's game versus the Chargers. Russell missed last week's win against the Raiders due to a hamstring injury. The third-year pro suited up for the previous 12 games for Tampa Bay, totaling 22 tackles. He's also seen increased playing time on defense recently, peaking at 60 percent of defensive snaps played Week 13 versus Carolina.
Russell (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Las Vegas, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports. Russell and outside corner Josh Hayes both popped up on Friday's injury report due to hamstring injuries, and both players will be sidelined Sunday. With K.J. Britt (ankle) also ruled out for Sunday's contest, Antonio Grier is set to start at inside linebacker alongside Lavonte David.