Richard Sherman is a free man. Of course, this is not peak Richard Sherman that is freed to land the best deal around the NFL.
He is about to turn 30. He is coming off a torn Achilles injury and he has shown signs of decline. Still, Sherman is a potential Hall of Fame player who brings a big pedigree to a team. He’s a winner, he’s smart, he has major attitude and, if he hasn’t fallen off the cliff and he can stay healthy, he can help on the field.
There will be suitors all around the NFL for Sherman. As we do at RaidersSnakepit.com, we will look at the AFC West a whole to help you, the Raiders’ fan, get a better feel for what to expect and how it can affect YOUR team:
Raiders: I would say this: I think the Raiders can be a contender for Sherman. If Al Davis were still alive, he’s the type of guy Al would overpay for. Let’s face it; Jon Gruden has some Davis in him. He could be tempted. The Raiders have a need for a veteran cornerback and defensive swag. Sherman too would probably dig the thought of playing for Gruden. Plus, he played at Stanford is from Los Angeles. The idea of being back in California, wearing the Silver and Black would probably appeal to him. But Sherman may get a big deal. Not sure he’d be in the Raiders’ budget with their other needs.
Denver: The Broncos probably aren’t a great fit here. It seems like they are OK at corner and have other fish to fry.
Los Angeles: Two words why the Chargers could be a favorite to land Sherman: Gus Bradley. The Chargers’ defensive coordinator was Sherman’s first DC in Seattle. Obviously, Sherman would be a natural fit for this defense. The Chargers are on the come and they play in Sherman’s hometown. There’s a lot to like about this fit if the Chargers want him.
Kansas City: Sherman would help the Chiefs. But I’m not sure he fits what they have been doing. It seems like they are shedding older, more expensive players rather than keeping them.
Conclusion: I’d say the Chargers are the favorite here if they want him. But don’t discount the Raiders, either.
We need at least 3 CBs.
Nobody knows what we will get from Conley.
Carrie is looking at FA.
Should Smith be labeled a starter at this point? No.
McDonald a starter? No.
That’s it.
At a minimum its time to take a long hard look at Sherman, Johnson and Butler. We need at least one starting or slot CB in FA.
It’s a given we’ll resign Carrie. If we were to sign Sherman or Fuller as well, I think our secondary would be in good shape. Also, draft another CB in the mid rounds for nice depth would also be a given.
Stick a fork in him. He’s done.