Sherman: Thomas deserves to be paid as 'top safety in the league'

Though the Seattle Seahawks released him in March, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Richard Sherman continues to show support for his former teammates.

Appearing at a youth football camp in Richmond, Va., on Saturday, Sherman stood by current Seahawk Earl Thomas, arguing that the safety deserves to be paid as an elite NFL player.

"I think Earl Thomas deserves the money he's asking for," Sherman told NFL Network's Michael Robinson, according to NFL.com's Austin Knoblauch. "I think he deserves to be compensated as the top safety in the league. Whether Seattle does that or not is up to them."

Seattle reportedly listened to at least two offers for the ball-hawking defensive back this offseason and sought a second-rounder for the six-time Pro Bowler, but general manager John Schneider said Thomas wants to stay despite the rumors. He's entering the last year of his contract.

The Seahawks may be unwilling to pay a hefty price to retain Thomas' services, but Sherman believes that would be unwise.

"Obviously, (Thomas) plays at a high level and the defense doesn't really work without his contribution," Sherman said. "I think after a while you show a certain level of respect to your players who've put in the time.

"And he's been a great example of dedication and perseverance, and just incredible excellence. So obviously he deserves to get paid, but whether they pay him or not is up to them."

Despite Thomas' importance, Seattle's numerous roster adjustments this offseason illustrate that the team is not afraid to part with veteran players. The former first-round pick will enter his ninth season with the Seahawks if he isn't traded or released prior to Week 1.