NFL rumors: Sheldon Richardson likely to become free agent
By Matt Conner
Per Ian Rapoport, the Seattle Seahawks are unlikely to use the franchise tag on Sheldon Richardson, which would allow him to become a free agent.
If the latest report from Ian Rapoport is correct, the defensive line market is going to be a bit more robust with top-end talent with the rumor that the Seattle Seahawks will not use their franchise tag on lineman Sheldon Richardson.
The Seahawks traded for Richardson last fall at a steep price: a second round pick in this year’s draft as well as wide receiver Jermaine Kearse. The Seahawks had plenty of wide receiver talent and thought the addition of Richardson would help put them over the top. Now the team is set to lose Paul Richardson in free agency and will apparently watch Richardson at least test the market as well.
Perhaps the Seahawks are hoping the open market will set a price they like for Richardson and then they can bring him back. However teams will take one look at the impressive front seven on this year’s Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, and likely mimic the up front investment. Richardson, in that case, stands to make a lot of money given that he just turned 27-years-old.
Last year in 15 starts, Richardson had 44 total tackles, his first ever interception, 1 sack and 2 fumble recoveries. He’s very effective against the run but he’s also able to push the pocket, a rare lineman who can stay in the game on all three downs. Putting him on a front next to Chris Jones and Justin Houston would significantly raise the quality of the defense in K.C.
Next: How much draft capital do the Chiefs have to work with?
Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Richardson also played in state for the Missouri Tigers, only leaving the state once he was selected by the Jets in the NFL Draft. A homecoming would be an interesting subplot for Richardson.