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So far in 2015, the Oakland Raiders’ biggest weakness has been the cornerback position. That’s why, when 2016 NFL Free Agency rolls around, Josh Norman should be the Raiders’ top target.
Norman, who currently plays for the Carolina Panthers, has emerged as one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks this season. With an impressive combination of size, speed and athleticism, the former fifth-round pick has all of the makings of a true shutdown cover man.
While it would be crazy for the Panthers to let him go, they may not be willing to spend the money it could take to sign Norman. Considering the way he’s played in 2015, it’s safe to assume he’ll be looking for top-tier money – similar to the four-year, $56 million deal Richard Sherman got back in 2014.
The Panthers will have an estimated $16.6 million to work with next offseason, while the Raiders will have an estimated $72.6 million available. It’s easy to understand why Norman would want to re-sign with Carolina, but money speaks volumes in this league.
If the Raiders signed Norman, he’d immediately upgrade their secondary tenfold. Teamed with the promising T.J. Carrie, Norman would give the Raiders a true No. 1 cornerback capable of shutting down the opponent’s best receiver.
It’s a no-brainer that the Raiders should be all-in on Norman if he’s available during 2016 NFL Free Agency. The Panthers could still re-sign him or use the franchise tag, but a trip to the open market would certainly be a golden opportunity for Oakland to upgrade its biggest weakness.
