2016 NFL free agency: Who signs Josh Norman?
In 2016 NFL free agency, who signs cornerback Josh Norman?
Last year, Josh Norman emerged from being a good corner to an elite one, getting all of the attention that comes with that. Despite losing in the Super Bowl, Norman played well for the Carolina Panthers, blanketing Demaryius Thomas for much of the game. Now, Norman is hitting free agency for the first time in his career. Here’s what you should expect.
Vitals
Age: 28
Notable stat: 7 career interceptions
All-Pro teams: 1 (2015)
Pro Bowls: 1 (2015)
Contract comparison
Norman is going to be paid as one of the best players in the game at a premium position. Considering how much teams throw the ball these days, Norman and players of his ilk are in high demand. Last year, we watched Byron Maxwell get a six-year, $63 million deal ($25M guaranteed) from the Philadelphia Eagles despite being a second corner for the Seattle Seahawks.
There are other notables as well. Darrelle Revis received a five-year, $70 million deal from the New York Jets with $39 million guaranteed, while Patrick Peterson is currently on a five-year pact for $70 million and $47.368 million guaranteed. However, Peterson is only 25 years old, while Norman is 28.
Estimate: 4 years/$54 million/$30 million
Will he stay?
There is very little chance that Norman gets out of Carolina. Although he is 28 years old, he remains one of the key pieces who the brass likely believes can still play at a high level for three or four more season. The other concern is that Norman has only been truly great for one season, but perhaps that’s a younger guy turning the corner.
If team and player can’t come to a deal before the March 1 franchise tag deadline, look for the Panthers to apply the tag at a $13.7 million value. Carolina can take that hit, considering its only other notable free agents are fullback Mike Tolbert and safety Roman Harper.
If he leaves…
Should he hit the market, look for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Oakland Raiders to engage in a bidding war. Both of those teams have more than $70 million in cap space and have gaping holes at cornerback. Other teams that could get into the mix include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons, something Carolina would certainly be averse to seeing.