John Russell made a name for himself as a four-year letterman at Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida. During his junior and senior seasons, Russell collected 177 tackles, 17 sacks and two fumble recoveries to earn a spot on the First-Team All-State team both years. The Jacksonville Times-Union rated him the fifth best lineman in the state of Florida during his senior campaign when he led his team to a perfect season and a 3A state championship. Upon graduation, Russell chose to attend Wake Forest over ACC Conference rivals Clemson, Duke and Georgia Tech. While at Wake Forest, Russell showed his versatility, having to move from his natural position at linebacker to defensive line his sophomore year and defensive tackle his junior season. He redshirted his freshman year, but became a key contributor the following season playing in all 13 games and starting in the finale against Louisville at the FedEx Orange Bowl. With only the offseason to learn a new position, Russell started all 13 games at defensive tackle in his junior campaign and ranked 2nd on the team in sacks (4), 3rd in tackles for a loss (7), and 9th in tackles (38). After graduating with a degree in political science, John Russell pursued his dream of playing in the NFL. He spent time in training camp with the Packers and Chiefs before landing his current position on the Buffalo Bills practice squad.

John was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida by his parents Dick and Betty Russell. After his football career is over, John is interested in coaching. He said, “as a player, you have an attachment to the game and coaching is one way to, in a sense, live vicariously through the players, and it seems like a good opportunity to influence others lives and turn them into a good person and a good player.”