Richard Sherman had plenty to say about the Eagles signing Riq Woolen

Richard Sherman knows a thing or two about playing cornerback in the NFL, so when he speaks about a player at the position, it’s usually worth paying attention.

The former All-Pro recently weighed in on the Eagles’ decision to sign Riq Woolen, and while he admitted the situation isn’t perfect, Sherman believes the fit in Philadelphia could end up being a really good one.

For a move that some fans initially viewed as risky, Sherman’s perspective adds some much-needed context.

Richard Sherman believes Riq Woolen can thrive in the Eagles’ defense

Richard Sherman recently discussed Woolen’s new deal with the Eagles and pointed out something that should immediately catch the attention of Birds fans: Vic Fangio’s system could be the perfect environment for him.

“In Vic Fangio’s system, he’s (Woolen) going to thrive. Opposite of Quinyon Mitchell, they’re going to be one of the most dynamic pair of corners. I think this is a move that works. I’m sure he would have loved a longer term, more security. Nobody really loves playing on a one-year deal, but I think the game is starting to make sense for Riq in a way that this is going to be beneficial to him.”

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According to Sherman, Woolen has the physical tools to excel in the scheme and could quickly become a problem for opposing offenses. Pairing him with Quinyon Mitchell on the outside could give the Eagles one of the more dynamic cornerback duos in the league.

That’s not exactly a small endorsement coming from someone who spent a decade shutting down receivers himself.

Richard Sherman also acknowledged the reality of Woolen’s contract situation. The cornerback signed a one-year, $15 million deal, which isn’t exactly the type of long-term security most players prefer. But Sherman suggested that the situation might actually benefit Woolen, giving him the opportunity to prove himself in a defense that fits his skill set.

And if things go well, both sides could end up winning.

The Eagles needed help at CB2

The Eagles didn’t bring Woolen in just for depth. They brought him in because they needed someone to stabilize the CB2 spot opposite Mitchell.

Last season, that role was a bit of a revolving door. Adoree’ Jackson and Kelee Ringo both had opportunities, but neither fully locked the job down. While Jackson did play better down the stretch, the Eagles clearly wanted a more reliable option heading into 2026.

That’s where Woolen comes in.

Despite an up-and-down season in Seattle last year, Woolen still appeared in 16 games and finished with 41 tackles, 12 pass breakups, and an interception. He also flashed late in the year, which helped him land this opportunity in Philadelphia.

At 6-foot-4, Woolen also brings something the Eagles haven’t really had in their secondary recently: serious length on the outside.

Richard Sherman’s endorsement adds intrigue

Again, this isn’t just random praise from someone watching film on the couch. Richard Sherman understands exactly what it takes to succeed at the position, especially in zone-heavy defenses similar to what Fangio likes to run.

That’s why his belief that Woolen can thrive in this system is notable.

If Woolen clicks in this defense the way Sherman expects, the Eagles could end up with a really strong cornerback trio. Mitchell on the outside, Woolen across from him, and Cooper DeJean locking things down in the slot would give Fangio plenty to work with.

Of course, all of that still has to play out on the field.

But if you’re looking for early signs that this move might work out, hearing Richard Sherman say Woolen is a great fit in Philadelphia is a pretty good place to start.