Panthers apply franchise tag to Josh Norman
The Carolina Panthers have placed the franchise tag on cornerback Josh Norman, according Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The two parties will continue negotiations for a long-term deal despite the designation, notes Rapoport.
After a breakout season in 2015, it's expected that Norman will be looking for a contract that'll put him among the highest-paid players at his position.
The three highest-paid cornerbacks in the league are Darrelle Revis, Patrick Peterson, and Richard Sherman, who all earn around $14 million per year.
Under the tag, Norman would be owed $13.9 million for the 2016 season.
The 28-year-old has said previously that he hopes to finish his career in Carolina.
"I really hope that I can be here, because I've been here my whole life,'' said Norman. "I don't want to change that. But hey, you never know how things will go.''
Norman was a key piece in the Panthers' run to Super Bowl 50, racking up 56 tackles, four interceptions, and two touchdowns.