Panthers use franchise tag on All-Pro Norman

Josh-Norman

Josh Norman is reportedly joining the Washington Redskins. (Brian Blanco/AP)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — 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 $13.952 million next season unless he signs a long-term contract extension. Carolina has until mid-July to negotiate a new deal with Norman.

Since the Panthers used the non-exclusive franchise tag option, other teams can approach him with offers. If an offer is made and Carolina doesn’t match, the Panthers would receive two first-round draft picks as compensation for losing him.

Norman told The Associated Press that “sure, everyone wants a long-term contract because it means more stability. But there isn’t much you can do.”

The 28-year-old Norman had four interceptions in the first four games of the 2015 season, returning two for touchdowns.

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