Newest Buccaneer Richard Sherman is expected to play a big role in Bucs defensive coordinator Todd Bowles defense this season. That process will likely start next week against Miami, after Sherman gets a couple of practices under his belt.

But the five-time Pro Bowler is a marquee name with a highly-publicized career as one of the best corners in football. Some believe Sherman has fallen off as a player, but the future Hall of Famer believes vital context is missing.

“The same thing I usually bring – I think I bring a level of leadership and accountability,” Sherman said. “I think I bring a high level of play. I think sometimes from the outside-looking-in people think, he’s old and that changes the way you play. But it really doesn’t. My standard of play is just higher. The standards that people hold me to are just higher. I’m not allowed to have bad games. I’m not allowed to give up catches without getting killed (in the media). I think the accountability part, I’ll bring that. And hopefully I’ll earn the respect of my teammates.”

Bucs HC Bruce Arians and GM Jason Licht – Photo by: Cliff Welch/PR

Though this is the first time that Sherman will have played for Bruce Arians and Bowles, he’s quite familiar with them. The 33-year old has a good relationship with the Bucs coaching staff dating back to their battles in the NFC West. Sherman was a lockdown corner in Seattle when Arians and Bowles were coaching in Arizona.

“Yeah, I’ve got a relationship with all of them,” Sherman said. “You’ve got to think, they were in the NFC West with me my whole career until they left to come to Tampa. So, in Arizona we had a lot of battles over the years. There was a lot of mutual respect there – mutual respect for what they do and what their scheme is. Todd [Bowles], as well. It’s fun with our powers combined.”

Arians couldn’t be more thrilled to not have to face Sherman again. Once Sherman gets some practice time under his belt, expect to see him push for a starting spot opposite Carlton Davis.

“(He’s) a veteran, experienced guy who’s been a Pro Bowl player,” Arians  said. “One of the smartest players [in the league]. Having gone against ‘Sherm’, it’s really odd to see him on our team. We’ve battled many, many times over the years. We’re really glad to have him. Obviously he’s got a lot to learn and has to get into football speed right now. It’s a really good addition.”