Carolina Panthers sign Josh Norman to practice squad

The Carolina Panthers have added a veteran piece to their defense, signing former Panthers cornerback Josh Norman to the practice squad. Norman began his career with Carolina, playing four seasons and receiving first-team All-Pro honors in 2015.

Panthers sign Josh Norman to practice squad

On Monday, the Panthers signed their former star defensive back to their practice squad to get him involved in their defense during their playoff push. Norman can be elevated to the active roster on gameday this week if needed, as the Panthers take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Buccaneers have a one-game lead over the NFC South and Carolina, meaning a loss for Carolina this week would eliminate them from the playoff picture.

“I want to not just go to the playoffs, but go on a deep run,” said Norman on Monday on his signing.

Norman brings a veteran presence back to Carolina, as the 35-year-old has played for four different teams over his ten-year career. In 2020, Norman played for the Bills and in 2021 he suited up for the 49ers — giving him experience in back-to-back conference championship games over the past two seasons.

Norman began his NFL career out of Coastal Carolina with the Panthers as a fifth-round draft pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and contributed early in his career. Unfortunately, it took a few seasons for Norman to stay on the field for a full year — eventually having his breakout All-Pro year during his fourth season with Carolina. He has accumulated 16 interceptions in his career, along with three defensive touchdowns.

Carolina coach Steve Wilks also explained that his decision to bring in Norman was largely based on his previous experience with the cornerback.

“I know him personally. He played for me. He understands the culture that we’ve tried to create here and the element of play we’re looking for,” said Wilks.