After recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in 2017, it has taken only two weeks for the NFL to see that former All-Pro Cornerback Richard Sherman is back to his old self.
The San Francisco 49ers have faced off against two noteworthy quarterbacks, Minnesota Vikings QB Kirk Cousins in Week 1 and Detroit Lions QB Matt Stafford in Week 2.
Coming off a major injury such as a torn Achilles, one would think that would be grounds for being tested early and often. It has been quite the opposite.
Sherman has been targeted a mere five times in two games. Among those targets only two of them were completed for a total gain of 28 yards. It's safe to say that QBs are scared to look his way.
This has come against wide receivers like Adam Thielen, Stefon Diggs, Marvin Jones, Golden Tate, and Kenny Golladay. Every single one of those players has "1,000 yard season" potential. Three out of the five surpassed 1,000 yards in 2017.
What's most surprising is that Sherman wasn't tested at all by Stafford. Stafford has thrown for over 35,000 yards and 220 touchdowns in his 10-year career. Not to mention, he has faced some of the best defenders this league has had to offer.
Matthew Stafford's Next Gen passing chart for Sunday. Two things that jump out:
1) 1 of 6 on throws of 25+ yards, and the 1 was a scramble-drill throw to Golden Tate.
2) Sherman was on the right side. pic.twitter.com/Jon5lw3Nzu
— Chris Burke (@ChrisBurkeNFL) September 17, 2018
Stafford completely avoided Sherman's side (right) of the field. This not only speaks volumes on Sherman's reputation but also of his current ability. Receivers are having trouble getting open on his side of the field.
The 49ers have not had a presence like this since Deion Sanders and it's showing on the field. However, Sherman is showing his true value off the field. It was reported that after the game against Detroit, Sherman was the last player to leave. He stayed behind and sat down individually with each member of the defensive backs group to go over different aspects of the game. Sherman is taking the time to teach these young players the nuances of the game and what it takes to be continually successful.
The 49ers locker room was almost emptied out... one of the last 3 players in there, long after he dressed and was ready to leave, was Richard Sherman. He stayed behind, chatting 1-on-1 with every DB — Jaquiski Tartt last.
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) September 17, 2018
Dedicated time like that leaves lasting impressions on young players. Impressions that these players will never forget, even after Sherman is gone.
During his press conference after the game against Detroit, Sherman noted that although they had finished the day with a win, it still felt like a loss.
"It feels like a loss to me."
Richard Sherman wasn't satisfied with the @49ers' narrow win against the @Lions. (via @MaioccoNBCS) https://t.co/kSYYhW3x4B pic.twitter.com/CtLlTBZmzf
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) September 17, 2018
Sherman has set a new high standard for the 49ers. His leadership just two weeks into the regular season is evident and infectious. It's bleeding through the locker room and the expectation of winning is becoming commonplace.
When you combine his performance on the field with his dedication off the field, it's clear that Richard Sherman is who he has always been.