After hitting Josh Norman with the franchise tag, the Carolina Panthers have rescinded the offer and one of the best up-and-coming shutdown corners in the NFL is (shockingly) a free agent.
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Here's the latest from the team's general manager, per WYFF4:
"After a number of conversations with Josh's agent we realized that a long-term deal was not attainable," general manager Dave Gettleman said. "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 had four interceptions and three forced fumbles, including 56 tackles in 2015.
Many of the best analysts in the sport can't wrap their heads around what just happened:
Panthers announce they have rescinded the franchise tag to corner Josh Norman. Didn't see him getting a long term deal but, this is shocker
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 20, 2016
The Panthers announce they've rescinded the franchise tag on Josh Norman. Ka ... BOOM.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 20, 2016
The player many believe is the best cornerback in the game -- Josh Norman -- is now a free agent. In April. Unreal circumstance
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2016
If it's just about sign-ability with Norman, wouldn't CAR fully explore tag and trade before draft??? This one is weird
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 20, 2016
Josh Norman was looking to be paid more than $16M per year… like the 1st 3 years of Darrelle Revis' extension. CAR cut him loose instead
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2016
He quickly becomes the best player on the market, and could be an ideal fit for a team like the Jacksonville Jaguars, per Peter King or San Francisco 49ers, per Adam Schefter.
