49ers: 5 players with the most on the line for the 2018 season

2. CB Richard Sherman

Prior to 2018, the San Francisco 49ers had a hate-hate relationship with Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman. The Niners weren’t the only team to take issue with the outspoken defender, but no one appreciated his vicious words and actions less than his NFC-West rival.

Sherman feuded with 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, constantly taunted wide receiver Michael Crabtree and paid fines for his obscene gestures toward quarterback Colin Kaepernick — and due to these theatrics, Sherman was hated by the 49ers and their fans.

So, when the Seahawks parted ways with their top defender in March, Sherman did the most “Shermanesque” thing he could, and promptly signed a contract to play for San Francisco.

Although initial fan feedback was mixed, many quickly warmed to the thought of their former hated rival playing in Niners red and gold:

Players on the team had similar positive reactions, from those who played through the heated 49ers-Seahawks rivalry, to those who hated Sherman from their time on other teams:

Within a matter of weeks, Sherman became a leader on the team, taking the entire secondary out to dinner, and coaching his fellow cornerbacks while he recovered from offseason surgery. The 49ers and their new acquisition are having quite the honeymoon — which will continue as long as Sherman produces on the field.

There will be no patience for Sherman if age or injury turns him into a shell of his former self. The 49ers expect Sherman to lock down one half of the field this year, and anything less will cause problems for the new Niner.

If Sherman fails to produce in 2018, fans will be quick to remember the past, and thanks to his team-friendly contract, the 49ers could easily show their new cornerback the door once the season ends.