Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman won’t shy away from wielding the franchise tag to ensure corner Josh Norman remains a Panther, Kevin Patra of NFL.com reports.
“I told you guys I don’t believe in drafting, developing players for other teams,” Gettleman said Wednesday from the NFL Scouting Combine. “For some reason it doesn’t make sense. So, yes, we are going to have the conversation (about a long-term contract), and we’re going to do the best we can … Nothing’s changed, we’re going to try and get a deal done.
“If not, there are options, and maybe the tag gets used.”
Gettleman isn’t worried about Norman being upset if he’s tagged.
“Josh is a pro. He’s a pro. No, not at all. Because … I’m not,” he said chuckling.
The franchise tag for cornerbacks is estimated at $13.7 million.