Smiles and hugs before the game as Richard Sherman returns to CenturyLink Field

SEATTLE - Before the game, at least, everything was smiles and hugs when Richard Sherman returned to CenturyLink Field on Sunday.

Sherman is back in Seattle for the first time since signing with San Francisco in the offseason, as the 49ers prepared to play the Seahawks.

Sherman exchanged hugs with former teammates, including wide receiver Doug Baldwin - one of his best friends off the field - and quarterback Russell Wilson.

SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 02: Richard Sherman #25 of the San Francisco 49ers hugs Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks during pre-game warmups at CenturyLink Field on December 2, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)

Sherman spent seven season with the Seahawks, being named to the Pro Bowl four times and winning the team's only Super Bowl title.

He'll see his old team again in two weeks, when the Seahawks head to San Francisco on Dec. 16.