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San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman has easily been one of the team’s best free-agent signings under general manager John Lynch. However, approaching the end of his three-year, $39 million deal with San Francisco, both he and the team must think about life after this season.
Sherman, 32, who doesn’t have an agent and instead represents himself, spoke with Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports about his expectations for the impending offseason.
The three-time All-Pro acknowledged, “there’s obviously a want from both sides to come back and make this work,” but ultimately concludes, “the numbers are adding up to that I won’t be here [with the 49ers next season] unless something miraculous happens.”
The 49ers have an impending salary cap crunch. With starters like Sherman, left tackle Trent Williams, and cornerback Jason Verrett all slotted for free agency, San Francisco will only have around $22.6 million in cap space to work with, per Over the Cap. Verrett and Williams have been two of the best players at their positions this season. If the 49ers re-sign Williams, they will probably have to choose between Sherman and Verrett. Given Verrett’s elite play this season, they might lean in that direction.
General managers have been known to manipulate media narratives to try and gain leverage in contract negotiations. Sherman would be justified in trying to entice a more favorable contract out of the 49ers even if he plans on staying. Still, it’s noteworthy that one of the team’s starting corners is discussing the possibility of leaving.
There is still plenty of time for things to change. Sherman’s market could not develop as he expects, or another team could offer Verrett a contract out of the 49ers’ price range. Of course, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh remains a leading head coaching candidate this offseason. If he’s hired by another team, it would make sense for him to target familiar faces like Sherman.
Over his time with San Francisco, Sherman has started 31 games, recorded 88 tackles, 16 passes defended, four interceptions, and a sack. This season Sherman has been limited by injuries and played in just two games, with 11 tackles, and one interception.
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