Richard Sherman
The vocal, physical force who anchored the Legion of Boom and defined an era of Seahawks dominance.
Richard Sherman is a former professional football cornerback who played 11 seasons in the NFL, including a key tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2011 NFL draft, Sherman quickly became a central figure in the Seahawks' secondary. He was part of the "Legion of Boom" defense that led the NFL in pass defense in 2013 and 2014. Sherman was selected to the Pro Bowl five times and voted All-Pro five times, including three first-team selections. In 2013, he led the NFL in interceptions. He is considered to be one of the greatest cornerbacks of all time.
- Role
- Cornerback
- Affiliation
- Seattle Seahawks (Primary)
- Draft Year
- 2011
- Super Bowl Appearance
- XLVIII
- Status
- Retired
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
During his time with the Seahawks, Sherman was part of the "Legion of Boom" defense, the secondary that led the NFL in pass defense in 2013 and 2014. This unit helped the Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII; their 43–8 victory over the Denver Broncos matched the third-largest margin of victory in the history of the Super Bowl. The Seahawks made it to Super Bowl XLIX the following season, losing in a close game against the New England Patriots. During Sherman's time with the Seahawks, they led the league in scoring defense for four straight years between 2012 and 2015, making them the first team to do so since the 1950s Cleveland Browns.
In Their Own Story
In Week 12 of the 2012 season, Sherman collected a season-high seven combined tackles, a pass deflection, and intercepted a pass by Rex Grossman during a 23–17 loss to the Washington Redskins. On December 9, 2012, Sherman recorded two combined tackles, deflected three passes, recovered a fumble, made two interceptions, and returned an interception for his first NFL touchdown during the Seahawks' 58–0 victory against the Arizona Cardinals. Sherman intercepted a pass by quarterback John Skelton, that was originally intended for wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, and returned it for a 19-yard touchdown in the second quarter.
Reader's Guide
Sherman's rookie season in 2011 saw him finish with 55 combined tackles (47 solo), 14 pass deflections, four interceptions, and a forced fumble in 16 games and 10 starts. He was selected to the 2011 PFW All-Rookie Team and led all rookies with 17 pass deflections and four interceptions. In 2012, Sherman earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the New York Jets on November 11, when he recorded three combined tackles, three pass deflections, an interception, and made his first career sack. Sherman sacked quarterback Mark Sanchez and forced a fumble that was recovered by teammate Jason Jones in the fourth quarter.
Did You Know?
- Sherman was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round (154th overall) of the 2011 NFL draft.
- In 2013, Sherman led the NFL in interceptions.
- Sherman was part of the 'Legion of Boom' defense that helped the Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII with a 43–8 victory over the Denver Broncos.
- During Sherman's time with the Seahawks, they led the league in scoring defense for four straight years between 2012 and 2015, the first team to do so since the 1950s Cleveland Browns.
- Sherman earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the New York Jets on November 11, 2012.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Richard Sherman?
Richard Sherman is a legendary cornerback drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2011 who became one of the franchise's most iconic figures. Known as 'Rocket,' he anchored the defense during its most dominant era before retiring.
What role did Richard Sherman play on the team?
As a vocal and physical force, Sherman served as the cornerstone cornerback for the Seahawks' elite secondary known as the Legion of Boom. His aggressive style helped define the team's identity by shutting down opposing offenses.
Why is Richard Sherman important to Seahawks history?
Sherman defined an era of dominance for Seattle, providing the leadership and on-field excellence that established the defense as a top unit in the league. His presence was instrumental in transforming the franchise into a Super Bowl contender.
Which major championship did Richard Sherman win with the Seahawks?
He played a pivotal role in leading the team to victory in Super Bowl XLVIII, cementing his legacy during the club's most successful period. This triumph highlighted his ability to perform on the biggest stage in football.
What is Richard Sherman's current status?
After a celebrated career that included multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring, Richard Sherman has officially retired from professional play. He remains a revered figure in the history of the Seattle Seahawks organization.
More in Club History
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