On coming to the combine with much more cap space than he’s had in previous years

“Of course it’s nice, but you know, we shopped at Tiffany’s last year. (Thomas Davis), Greg (Olsen), Luke (Kuechly) and Cam (Newton). That cost more than a bag of doughnuts, … You guys have seen my act for three years. I’m methodical. I’m intentional. And that’s the approach I’m going to take whether we’re $16 million over or we’re $25 (million) under. I’m not going to change. I think it’s kind of working, … We have not spent big money on a free agent; you guys know that. It’s about your own, your core.”

What it may mean

Gettleman will do some shopping over the next few weeks, but when free agency opens and you hear people wonder why the Panthers aren’t spending money, remind them about the $14 million it took to keep Norman from hitting the market as the top available cornerback. Guys will be added, holes will be filled, bad grades will be given … just like the past three offseasons.