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Richard Sherman turned down the Lions because he didn't like the culture

Richard Sherman 49ers
Posted at 9:28 AM, Jan 28, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-28 09:29:25-05

(WXYZ) — Star NFL cornerback Richard Sherman is preparing for the Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers, but he could have been a member of the Detroit Lions.

Speaking to David Lombardi of The Athletic, Sherman talked about why he signed with the 49ers, but also revealed he turned down a massive contract the Lions offered him.

According to Sherman, the Lions offered a contract that included $10 million guaranteed in the first two seasons – more guaranteed money than the 49ers deal he signed. But there was a reason he turned it down.

"That's not the kind of football I want to play," he said. "The way you run their scheme, your culture. You want to do it the Patriots' way and that's not the way I do football."

Former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia is currently the Lions head coach.

"I have fun. I like music at practice. I like to hang out and be relaxed in meetings. I don't like the stressful environment in football. (The Lions) condition every day after practice. My body isn't built to run all day and night. I'll be prepared, but I don't have to be run into the ground," he added.