Russell was one of the biggest draft busts in the history of the NFL. In 2009, Russell threw 11 interceptions and a paltry three touchdown passes. His despicable completion percentage of 48.8 and his knack for losing games caused the Oakland Raiders to sever ties with Russell only three years after they drafted him. He was looking to sign with another NFL team during the off-season.
Did Russell’s addiction to codeine syrup contribute to his pathetic performance as a quarterback?
Known as “purple drank,” “lean” or “syzzurp,” the use of codeine syrup as a means to get high started in the Houston area during the mid 1990s. Users of the drug mix codeine syrup with sprite, fruit punch or alcohol. Some of the side effects of syrup use include constipation, weight gain and cardiac arrest.
Notable rappers such Pimp C, Big Moe and DJ Screw had codeine syrup in their systems at the time of their deaths. Drug use continues to be popularized by rappers such as Lil Wayne, Rick Ross and Ludacris.
–amir shaw
