Russ sits next to 4 phonetic neighbors — Russell, Rush, and Ross are the closest matches by sound. Most share Russ's English-origin cluster, so the rhythm and vowel shape carry across the list.
You searched for names like
"red-haired, ruddy complexion"
"vigor, intensity"
"nurse, foster-mother (occupational surname)"
"lord, have mercy (liturgical)"
"Red-haired"
"son of Roderick"
"fruitful, productive"
"may He add"
"Spiritual refuge and inner peace"
"who is like God"
"God has heard"
"priest's estate"
"Yahweh is exalted"
"God is gracious (via Shaun)"
"great one (from Korean Tae root)"
"noble ruler"
"ardor, enthusiasm (from Welsh Rhys)"
"from the town by the sea"
"small stream, flowing water"
"royal power"
"enclosed woodland"
Similar sound: These names share phonetic patterns with Russ — similar vowel sounds, consonant clusters, or rhythm.
Shared roots: Several names on this list have Old French/Norman origins, giving them the same cultural heritage as Russ.
Rhythm: Russ is a 1-syllable name. Names with the same syllable count tend to feel interchangeable when you're narrowing your list.