Richard Sherman Fires Back at Jets Antonio Cromartie

Seattle Seahawks Richard Sherman had a few things to say after New York Jets Antonio Cromartie criticized him.

Last week, Cromartie stated that Sherman is not the best cornerback in the NFL because he does not switch sides of the field. Cromartie explained that the Seahawks' defensive alignment helps Sherman because it does not require him to switch sides while on the field.

He stated, "Go follow the No. 1 receiver. Follow him around for a whole entire game and let's see what you can do. Darrelle Revis [Jets] has done that his whole career. I've done that. Patrick Peterson [Cardinals] has done it. Joe Haden [Cleveland Browns] has done it. [Sherman] is the only defensive back that hasn't."

Cromartie added that not only does Sherman benefit from the Seahawks' defense strategy, he also benefits from played with two All-Pro safeties, Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor.

"That was unfortunate," Sherman said Tuesday. "You would think after me helping him get a Pro Bowl bid [for the 2014 season] ... We went to the Super Bowl and he wouldn't have made it to the Pro Bowl otherwise. And now he's talking bad."

During last season, Cromartie, who was with the Arizona Cardinals, went to the Pro Bowl as an alternate because Sherman had to skip it since he and the Seahawks were playing in the Super Bowl a week after.

Sherman has switch sides throughout his career when he had to follow the opponent's top receiver. He does not do it now, however, due to the Seahawks' defense.

"I think it's just one of those things that it's the ignorance of the public. How many great left tackles do you see switching to the right side because a great D-end switches to the right side? You don't see it," Sherman said. "Great players stay on their side and do what they're supposed to do. How many guys have you seen switching from side to side on a No. 1 defense? You've never seen it. We're the No. 1 defense for a reason. Who coaches a No. 1 defense to be worse?"

Sherman added that he is used to criticisms.

"I guess when you're doing something great you're always going to have naysayers and detractors. They just need an excuse for why we're great and why we have so much success. They have to give themselves some credibility somewhere," Sherman said "It is what it is. We're No. 1, so it must be working. It's an effective strategy for us. Obviously, we're playing at a high level. We're going to keep doing what we do. We've been No. 1 in scoring defense the past three years. If it ain't broke, don't break it."

Sherman also talked about how fortunate he was to avoid surgery for his injured elbow. After hurting it in the NFC Championship Game, Sherman thought that he might need Tommy John surgery. However, after talking with several experts and fellow players, Sherman chose to rehab it.

"I was relieved. I knew I would never have to throw a left-hand fastball so there was a chance I could avoid it," Sherman said. "I started taking opinions from different players and apparently a lot of O-linemen get the injury and they do just fine with it. I felt confident that I would be able to play without getting the surgery, just rehab."

Sherman has been rehabbing his elbow for four months.