Panthers GM Dave Gettleman said CB Josh Norman came back from his 2012 rookie year benching as a "different kid."

Norman, the No. 143 pick out of Coastal Carolina last year, started the first 12 games of the season, but he rode the bench for the final four weeks. Entering the league, Norman had a reputation for "guessing routes," and that's what got him in trouble as a rookie. As it stands right now, he's Carolina's No. 1 corner. The feeling inside the organization is Norman can develop into a top-tier cover man.

Panthers rookie RCB Josh Norman was benched for performance in Sunday's Week 14 win over the Falcons.

Coach Ron Rivera explained afterwards that he "wanted to look at other players," although it's no secret that Norman has struggled all year in pass coverage. And despite being picked on routinely, Norman has failed to capitalize with big plays. He has one interception and no forced fumbles on the season.

ESPN NFC South blogger Pat Yasinskas suggests fifth-round CB Josh Norman showed well enough at OTAs that the Panthers believe he could start as a rookie.

Per Yasinskas, the coaching staff and Steve Smith have been "raving" about Norman to the point where they believe he could end up starting opposite Chris Gamble, moving Captain Munnerlyn to a nickel back role. It sounds like Norman may have already passed Brandon Hogan and Darius Butler on the early depth chart.

Panthers signed No. 143 overall pick CB Josh Norman to a four-year contract.

A playmaker and shutdown corner at small school Coastal Carolina, Norman may need a year of adjustment at the NFL level. He's expected to push Captain Munnerlyn, Darius Butler, and Brandon Hogan for playing time opposite Chris Gamble.