The Washington Redskins want Josh Norman to be the shutdown cornerback that they signed him to be.

In 2016 after the Carolina Panthers rescinded their franchise tag on Norman, the Redskins signed him to a five-year $75 million contract.

Since signing with the Redskins, Norman has recorded 195 tackles, six interceptions, 37 pass deflections, and seven forced fumbles in three seasons (46 games).

Although the stats look good, head coach Jay Gruden wants him to be better. Norman has been an above-average cornerback in the burgundy and gold but he has been inconsistent at times.

Pro Football Focus gave him a 68.9 grade, which ranks 50th among all cornerbacks. He was flagged for holding and pass interference calls quite a bit during the 2018 season.

He was benched during halftime after wearing headphones as Gruden was addressing the team in their matchup with the Saints. The Redskins want him to be a leader and set an example for the players in the locker room. Norman is being paid like premier cornerback but he certainly isn't playing like one.

The Redskins have the talent on defense to help Norman succeed if he needs the help. They have Ryan Kerrigan, Da'Ron Payne, Jonathan Allen, Mason Foster, Landon Collins, Quinton Dunbar, and numerous of other top talent on that defense. There shouldn't be any reason for Norman not to be successful. He needs to find a way to recapture his 2015 form with the Panthers.

But maybe the 2015 Josh Norman was just a fluke.

There is no question that Norman will be on thin ice after the 2019 season if he doesn't step up his play. The Redskins will save $12.5 million in cap space in 2020 if they choose to release him.