Carolina Panthers Reaction Paper

On Wednesday the Carolina Panthers sent shockwaves through the NFL world when they decided to resend the franchise tag on cornerback Josh Norman making him an unrestricted free agent free to sign anywhere. Personally I think the Panthers made the right move in letting Norman walk and I think it will benefit the franchise presently and in the long run.

The Panthers sent a strong message with this move showing they will not be pushed around and/or mortgage the future success of the franchise for a player that doesn't seem to have the right mindset for this organization. Especially with just one Pro bowl season and by all accounts a questionable attitude. Prior to last year's breakout season Norman, if I recall correctly he was in the doghouse with Coach Rivera and he didn't play much his first couple of seasons. I understand a player wanting his payday after being productive on the field, but it was just one season and …show more content…
Norman only has one great year under his belt whereas Revis and Peterson have proven year after year to be quality football players and shutdown corners. I'm not saying Norman isn't a good player and may be worth that much someday, but right now there is no way. I know he didn't get thrown at much the second half of the season after his torrid beginning, but I seem to remember some plays where he gambled and got burned backing putting our defense and some bad situations.

Another big factor in his decision is his attitude it's been reported that he was not the best locker room presence and that's one thing I've learned since Gettleman's arrival to the Panthers is locker room chemistry is paramount and if that comes into question the “offender” is usually not a part of the long-term plans of the team. Norman's attitude played a part in the contract negotiations and it was clear to Gettleman that a long-term contract was not feasible due to Norman’s