The Redskins are reportedly releasing cornerback Josh Norman. He’s an intriguing option on the open market.
Cornerback is not a pressing need for the Bills by any means. Tre’Davious White is amongst the best in the league. Behind him, there’s Levi Wallace and Kevin Johnson. Wallace is an ERFA so he’ll likely be back. Johnson is also an unrestricted free agent, and could possibly leave.
That No. 2 corner spot job could be up for grabs and with Norman in mind, could he fit the bill?
There’s plenty to consider with him. On a veteran minimal deal? Something very low? Sure, why not sign him? Releasing him from such a contract won’t hurt the Bills much at all if he’s still bad.
There’s reason he could be worth it. Prior to signing a massive $75 million deal with the Redskins, the 32-year-old was with… you guessed it, the Panthers. He’ll be very familiar with Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane.
While in McDermott’s defense, the now 32-year-old had an All-Pro season in 2015. The following year he skipped town to the Redskins as the two sides couldn’t find a contract agreement. The Panthers franchised tagged him then rescinded it and Norman found his way to the Redskins.
There, it’s been ugly.
Just this past season alone, he ranked as Pro Football Focus’ 111th best cornerback in the NFL. Wallace was at 44 while Johnson was at 23. It hasn’t been just this season, either. Per PFF, in his first six seasons, Norman allowed 13 touchdowns. This past season, he’s allowed seven and over the past two, 16 total.
Plus, again, he’s 32, and on top of that, he was released by the Redskins. Who is their head coach? Ron Rivera, who was in Carolina in 2015 as well. Rivera didn’t think he could turn around Norman, even.
Past a minimal deal, the Bills should walk away from Norman. But if he’s willing to earn a spot on the Bills, giving him a shot wouldn’t hurt.
With the likes of Johnson and EJ Gaines, McDermott has signed veteran players to man spots in his secondary in recent years. Norman could be the latest version of that if the price is low. What’s the worst that could happen? We already had Vontae Davis.
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