J. J. Russell

Jarvis J. Russell (born October 12, 1998) is an American professional football linebacker. He played college football for the Memphis Tigers.

Early life Russell was born October 12, 1998, in Grenada, Mississippi, where he attended Grenada High School.

College career In 2017, Russell enrolled at the University of Memphis. In 2021, he led the Tigers with 123 tackles, being named first-team All-American Athletic Conference.

Professional career

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Russell went undrafted in the 2022 NFL draft but signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent on May 2, 2022. He was waived on August 30 but re-signed to the practice squad on August 31. On October 27 Russell was elevated to the active roster and made his NFL debut against the Baltimore Ravens playing 26 snaps. He was signed to the active roster on November 2. He was waived on November 26 and re-signed to the practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster on December 27. He was waived on January 16, 2023, but signed a reserve/future contract with the team two days later.

On August 29, 2023, Russell was waived by the Buccaneers and re-signed to the practice squad. He was promoted to the active roster on November 22.

Arizona Cardinals On May 21, 2025, Russell signed with the Arizona Cardinals on a one-year contract. He suffered a head and neck injury in practice and was placed on season-ending injured reserve on August 26, 2025.