In his prime, Richard Sherman was one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. While injuries have taken a physical toll on his body as of late, he still possesses one of his most dangerous weapons: his mind. It’s that type of gift that could make Sherman a highly sought after player when free agency opens up on March 17.
In December 2020, Sherman said that “it's been made pretty clear” that he wouldn’t return to the San Francisco 49ers. So, where is he going?
Bovada lists the Washington Football Team and a return to the Seattle Seahawks as the most likely destinations. Both teams’ lines are listed at +120.
Where Will Richard Sherman Play For Game 1 Of The 2021 Regular Season?
Odds via Bovada as of Friday, February 26
- Washington Football Team +120
- Seattle Seahawks +120
- Las Vegas Raiders +700
- New Orleans Saints +700
- New York Jets +700
- Miami Dolphins +700
It’s important to keep in mind that Sherman missed 11 games in 2020 due to a calf strain. He knows his body better than anyone else, but some teams might not be willing to gamble on the 32-year-old.
However, when he was healthy in 2019, Sherman was still one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Between the 2019 regular season and playoffs, Sherman allowed just 373 yards and one touchdown. If he can get close to playing like that again, Sherman could drastically improve a team’s Super Bowl odds.
Could Sherman end up in Washington?
The Washington Football Team (WFT) has been in the news lately for off-field reasons. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has been rumored to be interested in buying the team. However, the WFT could be in the news again if they managed to snag Sherman in free agency.
With over $42 million in cap space according to Spotrac, the WFT could afford Sherman. They surprised the NFL when they won the NFC East last season, only to lose to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round. In 2020, opposing teams average only 191.8 passing yards per game against the WFT, which was the second-fewest in the league. Adding Sherman could only strengthen that area.
A Return to Seattle Could be in the Cards
While there are rumors that Russell Wilson getting traded could be a possibility, so is the fact that Sherman could return to Seattle. The five-time All-Pro player left the Seahawks in March 2018 after the organization chose to release him. He said he gave the Seahawks a chance to match his 49ers contract, but they chose not to.
However, time can sometimes heal all wounds. Sherman was an integral part of Seattle’s Super Bowl 48 victory. He’s also one of the most beloved players in Seahawks history. As it stands right now, Spotrac estimates that Seattle will have $11 million in cap space this season. For Sherman to return, they’d either have to restructure contracts or he’d have to accept a lower offer.
Sherman can Solidify Miami’s Defense
The Miami Dolphins are one NFL team that’s been involved in several rumors this offseason. First, they were potential landing spots for Wilson and Deshaun Watson. Now, they’re a potential festinate for Sherman.
The Dolphins’ passing defense looked good at times last season. They only allowed 21 passing touchdowns, which is tied for second-fewest. On the other hand, they also allowed 4,373 passing yards, which was the 6th-most in the NFL. If Sherman can put his calf issues behind him, he could be a steal for Miami.
