Richard Sherman & Aqib Talib Could Be Offseason Targets For Patriots?

According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, there’s an understanding in NFL circles that both Richard Sherman and Aqib Talib could be available this offseason.

In regards to Sherman, Howe says that the Seahawks have yet to inform him of their plans this offseason, but it’s possible that they may wait until he’s able to pass a physical before exploring trades with prospective teams.

Howe adds that the possibility exists that Seattle could eventually release Sherman if there isn’t any trade interest him.

Interestingly enough, Howe reports that the Patriots called the Seahawks about Sherman last year but their interest was “brief.” A source tells Howe that Sherman was receptive to the idea of playing for the Patriots.

As for Talib, Howe says he too would be receptive to playing for the Patriots.

Reports have said that Talib is expected to be available for trade this offseason. Although the possibility exists that Denver could end up releasing him if there isn’t a deal to be made.

The Patriots are widely expected to move on from CB Malcolm Butler, who is a free agent, this offseason, so it would make sense for New England to explore their available options the position.

Sherman, 29, is a former fifth-round pick of the Seahawks back in 2011. He’s entering the final of his five-year, $58.789 million contract that includes $40 million guaranteed and stands to make a base salary of $11 million for the 2018 season.

According to OverTheCap.com, trading or releasing Sherman would free up $11 million of available cap space while creating $2.2 million in dead money.

In 2017, Sherman appeared in nine games and recorded 35 tackles, two interceptions and seven pass defenses for the Seahawks. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 33 cornerback out of 120 qualifying players.

Talib, 31, is a former first-round pick of the Buccaneers back in 2008. He spent four years in Tampa Bay before joining the Patriots in 2012.

The Broncos later signed him to a six-year, $57 million contract that includes $26 million guaranteed. He stands to make a base salar7 of $11 million for the 2018 season.

According to OverTheCap.com, trading or releasing Talib would free up $11 million of available cap space while creating $1 million in dead money.

In 2017, Talib appeared in 15 games for the Broncos and has recorded 31 tackles, one interception returned for touchdown, a forced fumble and seven pass defenses. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 14 cornerback out of 120 qualifying players.