Carolina Panthers place franchise tag on cornerback Josh Norman
Tuesday 1 March 2016 20:28, UK
The Carolina Panthers have applied the non-exclusive franchise tag to All-Pro cornerback Josh Norman.
The team made the announcement before Tuesday's deadline.
Norman will make $13.952m next season unless he signs a long-term contract extension. Carolina has until July 15 to negotiate a new deal with Norman.
"Josh has worked hard to develop himself into a very good player," general manager Dave Gettleman said. "We appreciate the role he plays for us in our defense and we look forward to having him back for the 2016 season."
Since the Panthers used the non-exclusive franchise tag option, other teams can approach him with offers. If an offer is made and Carolina do not match, the Panthers would receive two first-round draft picks as compensation for losing him.
Norman told the Associated Press: "Sure, everyone wants a long-term contract because it means more stability. But there isn't much you can do."
The 28-year-old had four interceptions in the first four games of the 2015 season, returning two for touchdowns. Norman was named to his first Pro Bowl and earned All-Pro honours for the first time.
"I'm excited that Josh will be back with the Panthers next season," head coach Ron Rivera said. "He played very well for us this year and was a big part of the success we enjoyed as a team."
