Emma: Bears Likely A Long Shot For New Free Agent Josh Norman
By Chris Emma--
(CBS) In an unprecedented move, the defending NFC champion Carolina Panthers removed the franchise tag from star cornerback Josh Norman on Wednesday, making the 2015 Pro Bowl selection an unrestricted free agent effective immediately.
Naturally, this news sent shockwaves around the NFL. Long after the action of free agency had concluded and just a week shy of the draft, one of the league's top players is suddenly available for bidding -- no strings attached.
Norman, 28, wasn't let loose because of off-field issues, clashing with his teammates or any situations of concern. No team would be taking a flyer on Norman. He simply wanted to be paid his worth.
"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 in a statement. "We have decided to rescind the franchise tag, freeing Josh to immediately become a UFA. We thank Josh for all his contributions and truly wish him well."
Norman had a breakout season in 2015, recording four interceptions and 18 pass breakups as a key piece to the Panthers' dominating defense. Norman allowed a 54.0 passer rating, the best mark among defenders, per Pro Football Focus.
This offseason, the Panthers slapped the franchise tag on Norman, tendering $13.592 million in 2016. It was more than the reported $11 million a year offered by Carolina, but Norman was seeking $16 million per season, according to multiple reports. He's now a free agent, so what's to come?
The 49ers, Buccaneers, Dolphins and Steelers have each reportedly reached out to Norman's camp. The Bears are likely to at least inquire about the possibility of adding Norman.
Bears general manager Ryan Pace put together a productive free agency period, bolstering his team -- specifically the defense -- with young talent. The Bears expect to make a jump toward contending after going 6-10 in Pace's first season in office. Still, with the draft a week away, one position that's still a great need is cornerback.
Moving past free agency, the Bears' current starting cornerbacks are Kyle Fuller and Tracy Porter. Fuller showed flashes of consistency toward the end of the 2015 season, while Porter played well enough to earn a new contract after working for the veteran's minimum. However, Pace can't feel completely comfortable with this cornerback tandem moving forward.
The Bears have $22.4 million in cap space remaining following a free agency period of wise spending. But Norman's price tag will likely be around that $16 million he sought from the Panthers. That price may not be right for the Bears. Even if Chicago was ready to bid, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that playing in California appeals to Norman, which would lend credence to the 49ers' chances.
Pace didn't get into any bidding wars this offseason, and he isn't likely to start now -- not even for the kind of talent who would transform a defense. That's perfectly fine and reasonable, because the Bears' front office should be trusted.
What's likely to happen is two or three teams will begin bidding against each other and drive that price beyond Norman's wildest imagination, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history.
After all, this is unprecedented.
Chris Emma covers the Chicago sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
