The Panthers have rescinded the franchise tag the team placed upon cornerback Josh Norman before the start of free agency.
He now becomes a free agent.
“After a number of conversations with Josh’s agent, we realized that a long-term deal was not attainable,” Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman said. “We thank Josh for all his contributions and truly wish him well.”
This is a stunner. Norman was No. 3 on PFT’s Hot 100 Free Agent List before the player movement period started. He’ll likely draw plenty of interest -- and plenty of money -- on the open market.
Norman started all 16 games for the first time last season and had a career-best four interceptions. He was a fifth-round pick of the Panthers in 2012.