Gettleman and Rivera both took the podium this morning for what was supposed to be all about a pre-draft press conference. But not even 24 hours after rescinding the franchise tag Pro Bowl cornerback Josh Norman, the presser started a little differently than expected, which included Gettleman reading a prepared script. Here are some things to take away from the surprising move. 

"I don't subscribe to the one player away theory because football is a team game." -Gettleman.

"The door is not closed on Josh Norman returning," Gettleman stated when asked. While it's not closed, it's hard to see Norman passing on a big contract somewhere else when that's the reason he wanted to hit the market. It will depend on other teams offers. 

"We've made some tough decisions before... And quite honestly I'm going to trust (Gettleman) this one, too." Head coach Ron Rivera stating Gettleman has proven his method works over the last few seasons. Three years in, three Panther vets gone, one Super Bowl appearance on a 15-1 regular season. 

"The more we thought about it, the more flexibility that $14 million would give us."- Dave Gettleman. 

Gettleman talked about "terrific culture" in the locker room last year and how he wanted "player who are all in." 

Some other things Gettleman mentioned were that the Norman situation would not affect the Panthers draft strategy of best player available. Their ears are open to trading the first round pick but "it's hard to give up that fifth-year option." Also stated there are four first round OT's available and stressed not reaching like he did with Kugbila in 2013, who never played and is no longer with the Panthers. Losing Norman creates a void but he trusts the coaches and the personnel he has to be prepared for the September 8th season opener.

By Tripp Morgan
Follow him on @TrippMorgan6