Newly signed Buccaneers cornerback Richard Sherman says his July arrest was "regrettable."
Speaking with reporters from team practice just hours after his signing was announced, Sherman said the July incident prompted him to take up therapy, which he called a "silver lining."
"Obviously it was an unfortunate situation, and regrettable," Sherman said. "But it led to some really positive changes. Some help, some therapy, some tools that I didn't have before, to address some things that you kind of let stack up in your mind. You never have time to address them. It's not the right moment, it's not the right place in your life to deal with these emotions and feelings."
Sherman, 33, was arrested after allegedly driving drunk through a work zone and then causing a domestic disturbance at his in-laws' house in Washington. An emergency call made by his wife indicated he was belligerent and threatening suicide during the the incident.
Sherman apologized following his arrest, and pled not guilty to five misdemeanor charges.
The incident cast further doubt on the three-time All-Pro's football future, after he went unsigned in free agency. Sherman said the 49ers, Seahawks, and Panthers had expressed interest in him at different points throughout the offseason.
The Bucs added Sherman after seeing a series of injuries in the defensive backfield. Quarterback Tom Brady reportedly played a personal role in recruiting Sherman to Tampa, which has made a habit of scooping up veteran castoffs with a chip on the shoulder.
Head coach Bruce Arians likened the Sherman signing to last year's notable midseason addition, wide receiver Antonio Brown.
Sherman was unlikely to suit up against the Patriots in Week 4, however, barring further injury, Arians said.
On Wednesday, Sherman, who had recently made his case for why he deserved a second shot in the NFL after his arrest, said it forced him to seek help.
"It really forced me to step back and go ask for help, and get the help I need. And not be afraid -- and be proud -- to ask. And in that, it's been remarkable how many other people have said they had the same issues."
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