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The Carolina Panthers have placed the franchise tag on cornerback Josh Norman, assuring him of a one-year contract this year worth $13,952,000. The non-exclusive tag means Norman is free to negotiate a deal with other teams, including the Jacksonville Jaguars. But if the Jaguars want to sign Norman, they'd have to beat the Panthers offer and give up two first-round picks.
In short, Norman isn't leaving Carolina.
Officially, Josh Norman has been franchise tagged by the #Panthers.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 1, 2016
The Panthers are reportedly working on a long-term deal for Norman. The franchise tag is a way to simply buy some time for the team.
Norman finished the 2015 season with four interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. (Yes, one of those was against Blake Bortles.) He also had 48 tackles, three forced fumbles, and 18 passes defensed to earn first-team All-Pro honors and a spot in this year's Pro Bowl.
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