Richard Sherman (American football)'s Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 31, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Richard Sherman (American football). Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Richard Sherman is a former American professional football cornerback renowned as one of the sport's greatest. He played college football at Stanford, transitioning from wide receiver to cornerback. Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2011, he achieved remarkable success, including five Pro Bowl selections, five All-Pro honors (three first-team), and leading the NFL in interceptions in 2013. A key player in the Seahawks' defense, Sherman contributed significantly to their Super Bowl victory. His skill, intelligence, and outspoken nature made him a prominent figure in the NFL.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2005: Track and Field Achievements

In 2005, Richard Sherman was named a USA Today All-American after winning the California state title in the triple jump. He also achieved high rankings in other track events.

2005: High School Senior Season

In 2005, during his senior year, Richard Sherman excelled in both football and track at Dominguez High School. He accumulated 1,030 all-purpose yards and helped his team win the CIF Southern Section Division III title.

November 11, 2012: First Career Sack

On November 11, 2012, Richard Sherman recorded his first career sack during a game against the New York Jets and earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

December 27, 2012: Won Appeal of Suspension

On December 27, 2012, it was announced that Richard Sherman won his appeal of a four-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy.

December 27, 2013: Voted to Pro Bowl

On December 27, 2013, it was announced that Richard Sherman was voted to the 2014 Pro Bowl, marking the first Pro Bowl selection of his career.

2013: Led NFL in Interceptions and Won Super Bowl

In 2013, Richard Sherman led the NFL in interceptions and helped the Seattle Seahawks win their first Super Bowl.

2013: Top Ranked Defense

In 2013, the Legion of Boom, including Richard Sherman, led the Seattle Seahawks to have the top-ranked defense in the league, allowing the fewest passing yards. The team finished first in the NFC West with a 13–3 record and reached the NFC Championship after defeating the New Orleans Saints 23–15 in the NFC Divisional Round.

January 19, 2014: NFC Championship Victory

On January 19, 2014, Richard Sherman contributed two combined tackles and a pass deflection in the NFC Championship Game, helping the Seahawks secure a 23–17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. His deflection of a pass by Colin Kaepernick, intended for Michael Crabtree, was caught by Malcolm Smith, sealing the win.

February 2, 2014: Super Bowl XLVIII Victory

On February 2, 2014, Richard Sherman started in Super Bowl XLVIII and recorded three combined tackles and a pass deflection. Despite suffering a high ankle sprain and spending the fourth quarter on the sidelines, he contributed to Seattle’s dominant 43–8 victory over the Denver Broncos.

June 6, 2014: Madden 15 Cover Athlete

On June 6, 2014, Richard Sherman was announced as the cover athlete for Madden 15.

November 27, 2014: NFC Defensive Player of the Week

On November 27, 2014, Richard Sherman intercepted two passes by Colin Kaepernick during the Seahawks' 19–3 win against the San Francisco 49ers on Thanksgiving Day. He also made two solo tackles and two pass deflections, earning him the NFC Defensive Player of the Week award.

2014: Pro Bowl Selection

In 2014, it was announced that Richard Sherman was voted to the 2014 Pro Bowl, marking the first Pro Bowl selection of his career.

December 20, 2016: Selection to 2017 Pro Bowl

On December 20, 2016, Richard Sherman was voted to the 2017 Pro Bowl.

2016: NFL Top 100 Ranking

In 2016, Richard Sherman was ranked 20th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

2016: Pro Bowl Selection

On December 17, Richard Sherman was selected to his fifth Pro Bowl, his first with the 49ers and first since 2016 with the Seahawks.

2017: NFL Top 100 Ranking

In 2017, Richard Sherman was ranked 21st by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

2018: NFL Top 100 Ranking

Despite only playing nine games due to injury in 2017, Richard Sherman was ranked 64th by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.

2020: Super Bowl LIV Loss and Accolades

In 2020, Richard Sherman and the 49ers were defeated by the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV. Sherman was criticized for his performance during the game-winning drive. However, he was ranked 28th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2020 and named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame All-2010s Team.