CHARLOTTE – The Panthers applied the non-exclusive franchise tag to cornerback James Bradberry on the deadline day to do so.

The tag keeps Norman in Carolina for the 2016 season and gives the team until July 15 to negotiate a long-term contract.

"Josh has worked hard to develop himself into a very good player," general manager Dave Gettleman said. "We appreciate the role he plays for us in our defense and we look forward to having him back for the 2016 season."

As a part of the non-exclusive franchise tag, the Panthers must tender a one-year qualifying offer of the average of the top five cornerback salaries from last season relative to the current salary cap. Other teams can approach with offers, but the Panthers can match and would receive two first-round picks from any potential suitor if they chose not to match.

Norman was set to become an unrestricted free agent following the best season of his four-year career. He started every game and emerged as one of the NFL's top corners, finishing with a career-high four interceptions, two interception returns for touchdowns and 18 passes defensed. Norman was named to his first Pro Bowl and garnered All-Pro honors for the first time.

"I'm excited that Josh will be back with the Panthers next season," head coach Ron Rivera said. "He played very well for us this year and was a big part of the success we enjoyed as a team."

Norman is the sixth player in team history to receive a franchise tag, joining punter Todd Sauerbrun (2003), offensive tackle Jordan Gross (2008), defensive end Julius Peppers (2009), center Ryan Kalil (2011) and defensive end Greg Hardy (2014).