NFL Tickets
In what can be described as an absolutely shocking development, the Carolina Panthers have elected to rescind the non-exclusive franchise tag they placed on cornerback Josh Norman earlier this offseason. Norman is now an unrestricted free agent.
Panthers have removed franchise tag on CB Josh Norman, now a free agent.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 20, 2016
The Panthers cited an inability to reach an agreement on a long-term deal as the main reason behind the decision.
Panthers GM says long-term deal w/ Norman wasn’t attainable: “We thank Josh & wish him well” https://t.co/Dd4QxOBdcm pic.twitter.com/wFuIQwfY8m
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 20, 2016
Panthers GM Dave Gettleman released the following statement via the team’s official Twitter account.
“After a number of conversations with Josh’s agent, we realized that a long-term deal was not attainable,” said Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman, per the team’s Twitter account. “We thank Josh for all his contributions and truly wish him well.”
Norman was set to make $13,952,000 for the 2016 campaign, but it was widely assumed the two parties would come to terms on an agreement to keep him with the franchise over the next five years at some point this summer, or during the season. At worst, Norman was expected to play with the Panthers in 2016 and return to the bargaining table with their front office in 2017.
The fact that the Panthers elected to end their relationship with Norman prematurely has baffled the masses. However, keep in mind there is an outside chance Norman was planning to hold out this summer. Such a maneuver could have put a damper on training camp for a team that believes it can return to (and this time win) the Super Bowl next February.
Steve Reed of the Associated Press spoke to Norman briefly about the news, and it doesn’t seem like he was handling it well.
Talked to Josh Norman a minute ago about the move, but would only say “Man, I just don’t feel like talking about it right now.”
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) April 20, 2016
Norman, 28, is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL currently, so it’s understandable that he’s looking to get a gargantuan amount of money for what projects to be his last big payday. A number of teams will be interested in obtaining his services, and ESPN‘s Adam Schefter suggested the San Francisco 49ers could be a fit.
Playing in California appeals to Josh Norman.
49ers have loads of cap room.
Just saying….
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 20, 2016
Expect a plethora of stories to break this week connecting him to up to a dozen teams. Most likely, a team that believes it’s on the verge on contending will surprisingly emerge from the pack and give Norman the $16 million per year he reportedly desires.
Share 
