Patriots likely one of the favorites to land Richard Sherman

So Richard Sherman is on the market. Released by the Seahawks on Friday, he’s now free to sign wherever he sees fit. But where is the best spot for the three-time All-Pro, who is coming off a season-ending Achilles’ injury?

Sherman, who will turn 30 at the end of the month, told NFL Media on Friday that he has a few prerequisites when it comes to where he wants to go: a team with a “great quarterback,” as well as the opportunity to be “comfortable.” (We’ll take the logical leap and assume he’s also not interested in playing for the veteran minimum either, so cap space also figures into the equation as well.)

He expanded on what he's looking for from a potential suitor later in the day.

"I want to go to a contender," he told Seattle's KIRO 97.3 FM. "I play at high level. I've always been a guy that can work well with others and continue to elevate if my teammates elevate and elevate others. In Seattle, we had a lot of guys playing at a high level regardless. ... We had to fit in like puzzle pieces and play off each other. We all did that very well, and that's why we had the success we had.

"Would I go to a young secondary that is like we were when we were younger and help them grow and help them advance? Sure, if the number looks right and the situation is comfortable for me and my family."

So with all that in mind, here are seven potential landing spots for Sherman.



Niners: On the surface, San Francisco checks off a lot of boxes: they have a ton of cap space, the need at cornerback, and what appears to be a great quarterback situation. Then, there’s a level of familiarity — Niners defensive coordinator Robert Saleh was the defensive quality control coach for Seattle from 2011 through 2013. All that, combined with an aggressive front office, could make San Francisco one of the favorites.

Patriots: New England has helped provide excellent second acts for veteran corners like Aqib Talib and Darrelle Revis in the past, which would likely figure into Sherman’s thinking. The Patriots certainly have a great quarterback situation and a manageable cap situation. And the expected offseason departure of Malcolm Butler creates a void that Sherman can neatly step into opposite Stephen Gilmore.