James Carlton Russ (born February 16, 1953) is a former American football player.

He played professional football as a linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets from 1975 to 1977.

[5] Russ was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the 13th round (315th overall pick) of the 1975 NFL draft.

[8] Jets' coach Lou Holtz acquired Russ to start in place of Steve Poole, who had been injured.

[12] As a result of the injury, Russ missed the remainder of the 1976 season and underwent knee surgery during the offseason.