Alden Gonzalez, ESPN Staff Writer 6y

Trumaine Johnson on absent Richard Sherman: 'It's going to feel weird'

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. -- Trumaine Johnson was drafted a year after Richard Sherman and wound up in the same division.

Sherman was a bigger cornerback, just like Johnson.

"So I'd try to see how well he works at the line of scrimmage versus smaller receivers," Johnson said.

But Sherman was also a receiver himself at Stanford.

"When the ball is in the air, he’s going to get it," Johnson said. "He’s attacking it instead of waiting for it."

Sherman was also unheralded, a fifth-round pick in 2011 largely because scouts worried about his speed in coverage.

"But he's big on technique," Johnson said. "If you’re a corner and you’re not the fastest guy, your technique has to be there. And he’s a technique master."

The Los Angeles Rams travel to face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday (1:05 p.m. PT on Fox). And for the first time since 2010, Sherman and his signature dreadlocks won't be on the field competing against them. The three-time All-Pro suffered a torn Achilles tendon in a Nov. 9 game against the Arizona Cardinals -- just like Rams cornerback Kayvon Webster did this past Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles -- and is out for the remainder of the season.

The Legion of Boom isn't the same without him.

"Prayers up for him for a healthy recovery," Johnson said. "It’s going to feel weird, going out there and playing without seeing him. He’s a big part of their defense."

Sherman is one of several injured players on the Seahawks' defense. Strong safety Kam Chancellor and defensive end Cliff Avril are also out for the year with neck injuries. And the Seahawks may be without two Pro Bowl linebackers for their crucial game from CenturyLink Field, with K.J. Wright (concussion) doubtful and Bobby Wagner (hamstring) questionable.

Johnson and Sherman don't talk much beyond the typical well-wishes after games, but Johnson, on his second consecutive franchise tag, has always admired Sherman from afar.

"That playmaker; those instincts, man," Johnson said. "He can change the game."

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