With millions in cap space and a need in the secondary, the San Francisco 49ers have opened up as the favorites to sign cornerback Josh Norman.
According to Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports, the 49ers are “expected” to become the “early front-runner” to acquire the All-Pro cornerback, with the Jacksonville Jaguars also in the mix.
Sources: #49ers expected to be early front-runner for Josh Norman. #Jaguars have interest. Story coming.
— Charles Robinson (@CharlesRobinson) April 21, 2016
The 49ers have over $52 million available in cap space, which is more than enough to give Norman—who could be looking at $15-16 million or more per season—what he desires on a long-term deal.
The Jaguars lead the NFL in cap space with almost $54 million.
As expected, Norman has found a healthy market for his services.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the 49ers, Washington Redskins, Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins have expressed the “most interest” in Norman early on in the process. The Buccaneers, New York Jets, Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans are also believed to be inquiring about the former Carolina Panthers cornerback.
In a shocking move, Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman rescinded the franchise tag from Norman on Wednesday. He immediately became an unrestricted free agent.
The 28-year-old cornerback intercepted four passes and scored a pair of touchdowns during a Pro Bowl and All-Pro season in 2015, helping the Panthers make the Super Bowl as NFC champions.
ESPN’s 49ers reporter Paul Gutierrez likes the idea of San Francisco adding Norman to the mix.
“Norman, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2015, would solidify a young Niners cornerback corps and give the 49ers a free-agent signing of note this offseason. Finally,” Gutierrez wrote.
The 49ers current cornerbacks include Tramaine Brock, Kenneth Acker and Dontae Johnson.
