Michael Irvin Defends Trash Talking, Richard Sherman

Irvin talked a lot of trash over his 12-year career with the Cowboys

Hall of Fame receiver Michael Irvin is no stranger to the mind-game that is trash talking in the NFL. As a key member of the Dallas Cowboys’ early- to mid-1990s dynasty, Irvin did a lot of talking, as well as a lot of backing it up.

So it isn’t difficult to imagine where Irvin stands on the Richard Sherman debate.

Irvin supports the Seahawks corner, whose comments directly after the NFC Championship game sparked a national yelling contest, and believes Sherman’s critics--those who believe his actions showed a lack of class--are missing the point.

“We like to call it trash talking as if we’re saying things just to demean others,” Irvin said, per the Dallas Morning News. “I don’t buy into that. If I’m talking, or I’m engaging, I’m engaging not to put you down but I’m engaging to do what I need to do to help me out.

“One of the things Jimmy Johnson would always say is each guy needs to do what he needs to do to make sure he plays his best. I’m not out here to give you the idea I’m nice. I’m out here to do what I need to play my best. That’s what Sherm does. I’m OK with that.”

Stay on top of the latest Dallas Cowboys news with NBCDFW.com. Follow NBC DFW on Facebook or have breaking Cowboys news sent directly to your phone with Blue Star SMS alerts. Text "bluestar" to 622339 (NBCDFW) to subscribe, text HELP for more info, and text STOP to end the subscription. Message and data rates may apply.Read more about it here.

Copyright FREEL - NBC Local Media
Contact Us