Richard Sherman expected to play

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman was one of the first players off the team bus Sunday, a likely indication that his baby is not expected to arrive during the Super Bowl.

Earlier Sunday he told Sports Illustrated, "I am playing [Sunday]."

Sherman's girlfriend, Ashley, is expecting their first child (a boy) on Feb. 9. Ashley is in Arizona for the Super Bowl. Sherman said earlier this week they had a plan in place if the baby came early.

On whether he would play if Ashley went into labor Sunday, Sherman said: "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it, but I think he will be a disciplined young man and stay in there a while longer."

Seahawks coach Pete Carroll said Friday he would support whatever decision Sherman made if the baby was born Sunday, and added, "But I can't wait to see little Petey."

Sherman said they have picked out a name, but he would not reveal it. Sherman got off the team bus Sunday wearing a grey-checkered sports coat, light blue shirt, dark blues pants, sunglasses and headphones.