Reactions To Josh Norman Signing

ESPN.com’s Matt Bowen writes that Josh Norman played with a “high-risk, high-reward mentality” while with the Panthers, a product of the team’s “zone-heavy defense.” Some fans may expect the cornerback to transition into more of a lock-down defender, but the writer notes that Washington will put Norman in a position to succeed.

Bowen predicts that defensive coordinator Joe Barry will use Norman in a variety of different formations, whether it be a deep three-man zone coverage or man-on-man opportunities. Ultimately, the writer believes it was a good signing for Washington, especially considering the presence of Odell Beckham and Dez Bryant in the division.

Let’s check out some more notes surrounding Washington’s signing of the All-Pro cornerback…

• The Panthers reportedly offered Norman $44MM over four years, tweets Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer.
• The signing of Norman may remind some in Washington of the lucrative deal signed by Albert Haynesworth in 2009, writes ProFootballTalk.com’s Mike Florio.
• ESPN.com’s John Keim says the signing follows Washington’s recent trend of “unexpected” but “impactful” additions. The team added wideout DeSean Jackson in 2014, and they signed linebacker Junior Galette last offseason.
• While the 49ers were reported to have interest in Norman, Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee writes that the organization never made a hard push to sign the corner. The writer adds that Norman never scheduled an interview with the 49ers.