Richard Sherman, San Francisco 49ers. (Mandatory Credit: San Francisco 49ers/Pool Photo via USA TODAY Network)
Richard Sherman believes 2020 will be the last season he plays for San Francisco 49ers.
Richard Sherman sees the writing on the wall, regarding his time with the San Francisco 49ers.
Sherman famously acted as his own agent during 2018 NFL free agency. The longtime Seattle Seahawks cornerback orchestrated his own three-year deal worth $27.15 million three offseasons ago coming off a torn Achilles. A Pro Bowl and a Super Bowl trip later, Sherman thinks 2020 will be his last season he plays for the 49ers. Entering his age-33 season, what is going on?
Richard Sherman knows the 49ers have limited cap space and must pay others
Sherman understands that the 49ers will have 40 players on the 2020 roster hitting free agency in 2021. San Francisco only has $30 million in available cap space and Sherman expects general manager John Lynch will prioritize bringing back offensive tackle Trent Williams and linebacker Fred Warner ahead of him. Though Sherman could return, it seems highly unlikely at this time.
Sherman has been in the NFL for a decade in his Hall-of-Fame-level career. Getting to a third Super Bowl and making another Pro Bowl probably tipped the scales in his favor to earn eventual Canton enshrinement. However, there is a chance he may call it a career after season’s end. He will be entering his age-33 season next year and he has a ton of wear and tear on his body.
While Sherman could suit up again in 2021, it may not be for the 49ers due to salary cap issues.