After his famous deflection in the 2013 NFC Championship game, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman boasted, “I’m the best corner in the game!” Two weeks later, the team proceeded to win the franchise’s first Super Bowl. The Hawks defense stifled quarterback Peyton Manning and his talented offense, and Sherman is a big part of the reason.
The Seattle Seahawks Should Not Trade Richard Sherman
Now rumors are circulating the Seahawks may be willing to trade Sherman for the right price. Some experts speculate the Seahawks would require at least a first round draft pick, as well as a third round selection. Two unproven rookies come nowhere near to approaching Sherman’s value. Additionally, the Seahawks would need to use one of those draft picks to acquire a replacement at the cornerback position.
These trade rumors may simply be a media invention, and the product of a slow offseason news cycle. Many critics calling for Sherman’s dismissal contradict themselves with the claim that the Seahawks need to draft a cornerback.
Trading Sherman would be a monumental mistake for the Seahawks. Sherman has repeatedly shut down the best receivers in the game, including Dez Bryant of the Dallas Cowboys, Julio Jones of the Atlanta Falcons, and Jordy Nelson of the Green Bay Packers.
The Seahawks use a zone defense in the secondary, rather than a man-to-man scheme. With lightning fast reflexes, Sherman is often able to cover more than one receiver at a time. Only the best defenders are capable of this task. Releasing Sherman may force the Hawks to abandon the game winning formula that has brought them so much success.
The Best Cornerback In The Game
Sherman’s claim that he is the best at his position is not an exaggeration. In many ways, Sherman’s accomplishments overshadow the success of star New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. Sherman has helped lead his team to numerous playoffs, back-to-back Super Bowls, and a championship.
The ability to defend against the deep pass is an invaluable contribution. The defense can concentrate on guarding against the run and short pass, with the assurance that Sherman will prevent the big play.
Fact Versus Fiction
Contrary to the claims of his critics, Sherman is actually a team player. His antics off the field lead many to believe he is a selfish narcissist, reminiscent of boxing great Muhammad Ali. In reality, he values the success of his team more than his own salary and statistics. He often sacrifices his own recognition for the benefit of his team. Many quarterbacks are even afraid to throw the ball in Sherman’s direction, reducing opportunities for interceptions and deflections. Still, the star cornerback has led the league in interceptions over a five-year span, not to mention the many incomplete passes he has disrupted. While he is outspoken off the field, he energizes and encourages his teammates on the field. In many ways, he is the glue that holds the defense together.
A Passionate Desire To Win
Critics point to occasional outbursts as evidence that Sherman is a distraction. Last season in a game with the Atlanta Falcons, Sherman lost his temper on the sidelines in a moment of frustration. His teammates quickly huddled up and encouraged him to remain calm. The team regrouped, and Sherman proceeded to make several key plays to secure the victory.
In another episode, Sherman approached coach Pete Carroll about his play selection in a game against the Los Angeles Rams. Detractors claim this episode demonstrates that Sherman often undermines authority. Simply expressing concern with leadership does not constitute insubordination. In fact, this willingness demonstrates a desire to win games and improve the team.
For these reasons, the Seahawks should, and most likely will, keep their star defender. No good reason exists to draft a cornerback when the team already possesses the best cornerback in the game.
