Ryan

Russell

The Cowboys needed only two camps to determine that their 2015 fifth-round pick didn’t have a future. It’s a bad sign for Russell at such a weak position in Dallas that he couldn’t so much as hang on as the fourth or fifth end.

With Demarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory suspended four games, the Cowboys are desperate for pass rushers. Russell was a fifth-round pick last year. “Ryan has done a really nice job,” coach Jason Garrett said. “Technically, he’s gotten better. Emotionally, he’s gotten better. I’m excited at where his development is.” With Benson Mayowa set to start on the right side, Russell is a strong contender at left end.

Broaddus admits it’s a “gut” feeling right now, but the Cowboys are going to have to patch something together with both starting DEs Demarcus Lawrence and Randy Gregory suspended the first four weeks of the season. Russell played in just one game last season as a fifth-round rookie. Benson Mayowa is expected to start at right end, with rookie Charles Tapper also in the mix.

An underachiever at Purdue, Russell showed good measurables at the Combine, running 4.75 with a 32 1/2-inch vertical. He should back up at multiple spots on the Cowboys defensive line.

Russell (6'4/269) made 47 starts for the Boilermakers, amassing 25 career tackles for loss and ten sacks. Measuring in with long arms (33 3/8") and big hands (10 1/4"), Russell showed good athletic ability in Indianapolis, running 4.75 with a 32 1/2-inch vertical and 9-foot-11 broad jump. Russell offers big-time tools, but was seen as an underachiever at Purdue, and NFL scouts have questioned his toughness. He would appear to be a boom-or-bust prospect.

The fifth-round rookie played 33 defensive snaps in Week 3 but had yet to play since then. He’ll be back to compete for a roster spot in camp next summer.

A fifth-round pick last year, Russell was active for one game before landing on I.R. With Greg Hardy gone and Randy Gregory suspended the first four weeks, he could see early-season snaps. Russell was an underachiever at Purdue, but had a standout 2015 Combine.

It’s the second visit to Buffalo for Russell. The Bucs nontendered Russell despite making seven starts last year. He would give the Bills some pass-rushing depth.

Russell was a restricted free agent who didn’t earn an offer from the Bucs. Russell appeared in a career-high 14 games last season, making seven starts. He tallied two sacks on 456 snaps, earning negative marks from Pro Football Focus. Russell turned 26 in January.

A deal was inevitable after Buffalo hosted Russell on two separate occasions. He started in the final seven games for the Buccaneers last season, finishing with two sacks. He’ll serve as pass-rushing depth.