The San Francisco 49ers have ruled cornerback Richard Sherman out of their game Saturday against the Arizona Cardinals, opening the door to the possibility that the defensive back has played his final game with the club, Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk is reporting.
With the Niners eliminated from playoff contention and in last place in the NFC West with a record of 5-9 on the season, it is unclear if Sherman would participate in next week's game against the Seattle Seahawks. Having dealt with a calf injury that has lingered throughout the year, the cornerback could very well opt to forgo the match as he prepares to enter free agency.
While he has expressed the desire to return to the 49ers, Sherman has been open about his belief that the organization's financial situation would prevent a reunion from occurring.
Speaking with reporters earlier this month, the DB explained that the possibility of a new deal was remote:
“If there's some miracle that happens, then sure there's an opening,” Sherman said. “But there's 40 free agents and they'll probably have $30 million or less in cash. They got to bring back Trent [Williams] who costs over $20 million. They have to pay Fred [Warner], who will cost $18 million-plus a year. Anybody who knows the situation understands that.”
Having dealt with injury concerns all season to key players, Sherman was not the only contributor the 49ers ruled out Thursday. Joining the cornerback on the injury list is quarterback Nick Mullens, running back Raheem Mostert, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and free safety Jimmie Ward.
For a team hoping to play spoiler in a brutal division, the Niners will have to do so shorthandedly.
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