Former NFL quarterback JaMarcus Russell faces a lawsuit for allegedly misappropriating a $74,000 donation check intended for Williamson High School's football program, where he was a volunteer coach. Business owner Chris Knowles issued the check in July 2022, but stopped payment when Russell did not provide a receipt and ceased communication. Navigator Credit Union, which mistakenly paid nearly $55,000 of the check, filed the lawsuit seeking damages. Russell, who was removed from his coaching position during the 2023 season, has filed a counterclaim against Knowles. School officials have barred Russell from the campus and cited personnel matters for his dismissal, without confirming if the lawsuit influenced the decision. The case is set to go to trial in October 2024.