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.
Quick Facts
- Position
- Cornerback
- Born
- 30 March 1988
- Birthplace
- Compton, California, U.S.
- High school
- Manuel Dominguez (Compton)
- College
- Stanford (2006–2010)
- Draft year
- 2011
- Draft round
- 5
- Draft pick
- 154
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 in 2013 and 2014, making them one of the most dominant defensive units of the era.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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