Josh Norman: Inside The Numbers

After a 31-26 loss against the Dallas Cowboys, wide receiver Dez Bryant had no issue stating “Washington should ask for their money back”. This happened to be in relations to the 5-year, $75 million deal Norman signed with the Redskins this past offseason.

While Bryant finished with 5 receptions for 72 yards, it still leaves the nation wondering if Norman is in fact overrated. 

Within the first four games of the 2015 season, Norman was able to secure four interceptions against teams such as the Buccaneers, Saints, and Jaguars. In eleven games in 2016, Norman has one interception, and that was coming off the Browns in week four. 

Through 12 weeks last season, Norman eclipsed 36 total tackles. As 2016 has been in play, Norman has been reduced to only 33 total tackles. While it could be argued that quarterbacks are throwing in Norman’s direction less compared to last year, Norman’s play has significantly declined. 

The Redskins defense as a whole is to blame in some aspect, as their defense currently ranks 18th in passing yards allowed per game (252.9), 19th in points allowed per game (24), and 23rd in total yards allowed per game (369.7). 

Norman is making just under $5 million more than the next highest-paid corner (Revis). Based on the following salary caps, I find guys such as Patrick Peterson, Chris Harris Jr, Marcus Peters, and even Richard Sherman as better value picks than Norman as of now. 

Before people freak out, Norman is a top 10 cornerback today, but he is overvalued, overpaid, and yes, overrated. While Norman has been brought in to solve the defenses pass defense issues, it’s evident that he has been more of a distraction than anything else.