Signing Josh Norman to a massive contract is one of many moves the Washington Redskins have made in recent years that did not pan out, and it’s possible the Pro Bowl cornerback has played his last snap with the team.
Norman was benched during last week’s game and is expected to be a healthy scratch on Sunday against the Detroit Lions, Erin Hawksworth of The Athletic reports.
Josh Norman will be inactive today even though he is healthy, according to a source. Not a huge surprise since he was benched last week.
— Erin Hawksworth (@ErinHawksworth) November 24, 2019
The move comes just days after Washington defensive coordinator Greg Manusky called Norman out for his lackluster play. The coach was asked why Norman hasn’t been making big plays this season, and he indicated that is because of the player and not the scheme.
Greg Manusky when asked why Josh Norman isn’t playing better “we put him in situations to make plays and we’re just not making them.” Says that’s across the board for other players.
— John Keim (@john_keim) November 21, 2019
Norman signed a five-year, $75 million deal with Washington prior to the 2016 season. The team could save $12.5 million against the salary cap if they release him this offseason, and that is a likely outcome at this point.
One former Redskins player said before the season that the team should move on from Norman, and Jay Gruden took a lighthearted swipe at the 31-year-old before the coach was fired. Norman’s days in Washington appear to be done.
UPDATE: The Redskins reportedly changed their mind and made Norman active for the game.
