4. NFC East rivalries already in mid-season form
Josh Norman must not like the offseason, because he’s started a couple of fights already with two of his most famous rivals. In a wide-ranging interview with Tyler Dunne of Bleacher Report, Norman called out both NFC East rivals Odell Beckham Jr. and Dez Bryant. Essentially, he said neither player tests his greatness (read more about that here).
He’ll have at least four chances to back up his big talk. And now that defensive coordinator Greg Manusky has said he’ll allow Norman to shadow the top receiver every week, those battles should only intensify. Last year, Norman wasn’t always on Bryant or OBJ. This year, he apparently will be.
Will we see Norman shut them down? He’s had good success against Beckham Jr. in the past, who seems to have little ability to block out Norman’s mental attacks. But Dez Bryant was pretty successful last year the two times they met up, and he’s fully healthy entering the 2017 season.
Josh Norman says Dez Bryant, NFC East receivers are just guys; 'I'm not enhancing my craft' against them."
INTERESTING. 🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔 pic.twitter.com/e8BCqcnNvq
— Mikecury Retrograde 🔌 (@UnbotheredMike) May 25, 2017
We can’t wait to see Bryant and Norman square up. And we also look forward to seeing if Beckham Jr. has finally learned how to control his emotions. So far, he’s been on the losing end of his battles with Norman.
Whatever happens, we know for sure it’s going to be must-see football.