Josh Norman has plenty to play for come Monday night.
"Just as much as I'm looking forward to being Santa Claus," Norman quipped during a conference call with Panthers reporters, per the BlackAndBlueReview.com.
It's a showdown that recalls another high-profile "revenge game," when veteran receiver Steve Smith fried the Panthers, his former employer, for 139 yards and two scores after joining the Ravens in 2014.
"He just did his thing quietly," Norman said of Smith. "I've got a different outlook. ... You guys know me better than, I think, anyone else and you should know how this is going to go down."
Norman has openly blamed Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman for lifting his franchise tag last spring, wondering out loud if his release had something to do with his colorful personality, saying: "How I am probably don't suit some people in that atmosphere. But it's cool."
The Panthers have missed Norman, who days later inked a five-year, $75 million deal with the Redskins and currently ranks as the league's No. 18 cornerback, per Pro Football Focus. It hasn't been a perfect campaign, but Norman -- the highest-paid player at his position -- has brought attitude and moments of stellar play to Washington's secondary.
And, of course, a massive chip on his shoulder.
"I gave them my all. I gave everything I could do, and at the end of the day, it seems as if I wasn't worthy enough to be there. I got fired," Norman said. "So I'm kind of taking it like that."
