5 NFL superstars savagely cut by their teams

#3 - Richard Sherman, Seattle Seahawks

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman

Richard Sherman was one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL during his time with the Seattle Seahawks, having been selected as a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler in four consecutive seasons.

He was a key part of the infamous Legion of Boom defense that helped the Seahawks win two conference titles and a Super Bowl ring.

During the 2017 NFL season, his final year with the Seahawks, Sherman dealt with injuries and was only able to appear in nine games. He was cut during the following offseason despite his previous dominance.

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#2 - Dez Bryant, Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant

While he is often outspoken and sometimes controversial, Dez Bryant is one of the best wide receivers in Dallas Cowboys franchise history.

During his career peak, he exceeded 85 receptions for 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns in three consecutive seasons. He did that while being selected to the Pro Bowl in all of them and also making an appearance as a first-team All-Pro.

Following a solid 2017 NFL season in which Bryant recorded 69 receptions for 838 yards and six touchdowns, owner Jerry Jones asked him to restructure his contract to create more available cap space. After Bryant was unwilling to accept Jones' offer, he was cut from the team.

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#1 - Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith

Steve Smith had an incredible 13 seasons with the Carolina Panthers. He exceeded 1,000 receiving yards eight times while being selected to five Pro Bowls and three All-Pro teams.

During his final three seasons with the Panthers, Smith recorded an impressive 3,319 yards and 20 touchdowns, proving he still had plenty left in the tank. He was shockingly cut following the 2013 season, despite being one of the team's captains.