Redskins not expected to release Josh Norman for salary cap relief

There has been a lot of speculation about Josh Norman's future with the Washington Redskins. He was a surprise signing after the Carolina Panthers rescinded the franchise tag in 2016, and the Redskins made the former All Pro the highest-paid CB in the NFL.

Norman has been Washington's top corner the last few years, but he hasn't been a superstar. Head Coach Jay Gruden said he loved what Norman has brought to the team, but he's looking for that next level play.

JP Finlay reports that Josh Norman won't be getting cut for post-June 1st salary cap relief according to a team official.

There has been some speculation that veteran cornerback Josh Norman could be a June cap casualty. Checking in with one team official, the word was there had not been discussions about releasing Norman.

The 31-year-old corner is slated to count $14.5 million against the cap this season, and none of it is guaranteed. If the Redskins released Norman in June, they would save $11.5 million against the cap and eat $3 million in dead money this season and next. Had they released him before June, or without the June 1 designation, those numbers would have been less advantageous for the club, including the full $6 million dead cap hit this year.

The Redskins didn't draft a CB until the 7th round this year. Jimmy Moreland is reaching supernova levels of hype for his multiple interception practices and swagger, but that's not pushing Norman off the roater.

Finlay lays out the other CBs on the roster, and it's easy to see why Norman sticks around another year. This biggest thing Finlay mentions is that the Redskins other starting CB Quinton Dunbar hasn't been seen running full speed since dealing with nerve damage in his legs last year. Redskins officials think he's ready for training camp, which will be a big boost.