Lions were “strongly motivated” in pursuit of Richard Sherman

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Following his release from the Seattle Seahawks, the Detroit Lions were scheduled to meet with cornerback Richard Sherman. Ultimately, however, bringing him to the Motor City wasn’t meant to be, as he’s signed a three year deal with the San Francisco 49ers worth a reported $39.15 million.

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Sherman’s decision to stay out West is surely stinging for the Lions, who had strong interest in his services. According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Detroit was “strongly motivated” to sign him, despite his ongoing recovery from a ruptured an Achilles tendon last year that limited his action to just nine games. 

From Florio’s article:

“Per a league source, the Lions was strongly motivated to pursue Sherman, who signed with the 49ers only one day after being cut by the Seahawks. It’s unclear whether the Lions would have offered Sherman more than the 49ers offered. Some think Sherman should have taken the visit to Detroit, if only to leverage the 49ers into doing a better deal.

Of course, it’s possible that the 49ers told Sherman that, if he moved on to a Detroit visit, the 49ers would have moved on to another option. It’s a tactic commonly used by teams in the early stages of free agency, and it’s often not a bluff.

The Lions still have options with cornerbacks Malcolm Butler and Trumaine Johnson available in free agency, and approximately $27 million in cap space with which to work. 

In 105 career games, Sherman has registered 286 tackles, five forced fumbles, 32 interceptions, and has scored two touchdowns.

BONUS CONTENT – LIONS COACH MATT PATRICIA EARNED RESPECT FROM PEERS

There’s a new aura of anticipation in the Motor City with former New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as the new head coach of the Detroit Lions. Already well known throughout the NFL, he joins forces with another former Patriots employee – Bob Quinn – to hopefully bring an end to the long suffering of Lions fans.

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