EXHIBIT (23)

               Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of
Russell Corporation listed below of our report dated February 10, 2004, with
respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Russell
Corporation included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended
January 3, 2004.

                  Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-47906
                  Form S-3 Registration Statement No. 33-54361
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 33-69679
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-89765
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-30236
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-30238
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-55338
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-55340
                  Form S-8 Registration Statement No. 333-97129



                                               /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Birmingham, Alabama
March 12, 2004