He played his junior rugby league for the Rouse Hill Rhinos. Russell played fullback for Patrician Brothers Blacktown in their NRL Schoolboy final, scoring a try, playing alongside fellow Eels teammates Jakob Arthur and Samuel Loizou.[2]
Playing career
2021
In round 15 of the 2021 NRL season, Russell made his first grade debut for Parramatta against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, scoring two tries in a 36-10 victory.[3]
In December 2021, Russell signed a new deal to remain at Parramatta until the end of the 2023 season.[4]
2022
In round 1 of the 2022 NRL season, Russell scored a hat-trick in Parramatta's 32-28 victory over the Gold Coast, however suffered fractured ribs and a punctured lung as he scored his third try following an ugly collision with Jayden Campbell.[5] Russell was taken to hospital in the aftermath and later ruled out indefinitely from playing.[6] Parramatta went on to make the Grand Final that year without his involvement. On 7 October, Russell signed a two-year contract extension to remain at Parramatta until the end of 2024.[7]
2023
On 15 March, it was announced that Russell would miss the entire 2023 season after he injured his shoulder during a freak training accident which would require surgery.[8]
In round 6 of the 2023 NRL season, Russell who was initially thought to be ruled out for the season, played in the clubs 28-22 victory over the bottom placed Wests Tigers.[9]
Russell played a total of 17 matches for Parramatta in the 2023 NRL season as the club finished 10th and missed the finals.[10]
2024
Russell played 21 games for Parramatta in the 2024 NRL season and scored five tries as the club finished 15th on the table. On 27 November, Russell signed a two-year contract extension to remain at Parramatta until the end of 2026.[11]
