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2016 NFL Free Agency News: Carolina Panthers Remove Franchise Tag From Josh Norman, Making Cornerback Unrestricted Free Agent

That's a bold strategy, Cotton. Could the cornerback make his way to the AFC South?

Free to sign anywhere.
Free to sign anywhere.
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Norman is one of the best cornerbacks in the league, so it was no surprise that the Carolina Panthers slapped him with the franchise tag to ensure he'd stay in Charlotte in 2016. What is a surprise, however, is that the Panthers decided today to remove that tag, immediately making Norman an unrestricted free agent, available to sign with any team in the NFL.

Dave Gettlemen, the Panthers' general manager, released this statement after the decision was made:

While your Houston Texans lack the cap space to pursue the cornerback, a handful of other teams may be in play, including the Jacksonville Jaguars. As you might expect, our chums at Big Cat Country want to make Norman a Jag in a bad way.

Your reaction to this unexpected free agency news a week before the 2016 NFL Draft? Where do you think Norman ends up?