JaMarcus Russell Won't Be Indicted For 'Purple Drank'

JaMarcus Russell has apparently been cleared by a grand jury of any charges for related a codeine-laced drink found at his home in Mobile, Ala. The grand jury made its decision after Marcus Stevenson, a friend of Russell, testified in August that he was responsible for the “purple drank” police found during a July search of Russell’s home.

"He was elated," [lawyer Donald] Briskman said of Russell. "He wants to get back into playing professional football. With this matter being resolved, hopefully it will open up avenues for him to return to the NFL."

Well, that’s part of the battle. The UFL’s Omaha Warhawks appear to have had more interest than any NFL teams, and Russell has made it clear he won’t be headed there. But at least there’s one fewer barrier in his way if an NFL team does come calling.