April 21, 2016 - Aaron Wilson
Panthers rescind franchise tag for Josh Norman, free agent now
It was a stunning move.
The Carolina Panthers rescinded Pro Bowl cornerback Josh Norman's $13.952 million franchise tag.
He's no an unrestricted free agent.
The Panthers felt they didn't have a shot at hammering out a deal with Norman.
“After a number of conversations with Josh’s agent we realized that a long-term deal was not attainable,” general manager Dave Gettleman said in a statement. “We have decided to rescind the franchise tag, freeing Josh to immediately become a UFA. We thank Josh for all his contributions and truly wish him well.”
Norman wanted to be paid $16 million per year.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers and several other teams are interested in Norman.
Norman intercepted four passes last season.
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Aaron Wilson covers the Texans for The Houston Chronicle.