Russum considering Idaho, EWU and Montana

Brent Russum, a Lewiston High School graduate who was dismissed from Arizona State University’s football team in late March, has narrowed his search for a new school to three.

Russum is considering Idaho, Eastern Washington and Montana, according to Emmett Dougherty, who was Russum’s coach at Lewiston High.

“He’s really up in the air because they all kind of offer different things,” said Dougherty, who has stayed in regular contact with Russum. “Idaho is Division I-A. Montana is Montana – one of the best in I-AA. Eastern has pumped out some great offensive linemen and they’ve been pretty strong in the Big Sky Conference. They all have great things to offer for him.”

Dougherty thought Russum had already visited Idaho and EWU. Russum is expected to visit Montana next week.

“I’m pretty sure he’ll have a decision made in a couple of weeks,” Dougherty said.

Russum and fellow redshirt freshman offensive lineman Jonathan Lehmann were booted off ASU’s team after they allegedly photographed a female student, without her permission, while she was nude.

An ASU public safety department spokesperson last week said limited details are being released because the case is under grand jury subpoena.

Russum has declined several interview requests.

After being dismissed from the team, Russum remained in school at Arizona State and left in good academic standing, Dougherty said.

Depending on the outcome of the legal process, Russum could be eligible this season at EWU or Montana. Under NCAA rules regarding I-A transfers to another I-A program, Russum would have to sit out this season if he chooses Idaho.

Dougherty said Russum has expressed regret over the March incident.

“He came by (Lewiston High two weeks ago) and it was tough for him,” Dougherty said. “He’s got to face the music around here now and that’s part of the process, but he’s working through it. Certainly he realizes that a lot of people looked up to him and supported him and he’s done some damage, but he’s trying to build that support back.”

Russum, twice an all-state lineman at Lewiston, originally chose Arizona State over Oregon.