Panthers hope Bradberry, other young CBs can replace Norman

Carolina Panthers rookie cornerback James Bradberry walked onto the practice field Friday wearing No. 24.

[...] No. 24 is what All-Pro cornerback Josh Norman wore last season before he unexpectedly departed Carolina as an unrestricted free agent after the NFC champions abruptly rescinded their $13.9 million franchise tag offer.

[...] I’m trying to help this team win, whether it’s on special teams or locking up the No. 1 receiver.

The Panthers drafted three cornerbacks last month to restock the shelves with Norman gone and last year’s other starting cornerback Charles Tillman a free agent and not expected to return.

Between those three and Bene Benwikere, who played most of last season at nickel back, the Panthers believe they have the makings of a talented secondary.

To assistant head coach and defensive backs coach Steve Wilkes the draft was like Christmas had come early.

Cleveland signed wide receiver Corey Coleman, its first-round draft pick, to a four-year, $11.6 million deal.

Jacksonville signed linebacker Myles Jack, a second-round pick from UCLA, to a four-year, $6.3 million contract.