Redskins CB Josh Norman on criticism: 'I can take it'

Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman has been on the receiving end of criticism from opposing players and fans since he signed a five-year deal worth $75 million this off-season.

Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman has been on the receiving end of criticism from opposing players and fans since he signed a five-year deal worth $75 million this off-season.

The extra attention that Norman is currently receiving was magnified by a feature run on the 28-year-old in ESPN The Magazine, in which he took a jab at Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas as well as commissioner Roger Goodell.

However, Norman is confident that he can handle the increased expectations on him heading into the season.

“I can take it,” Norman said via CSNMidAtlantic. “I’m a big boy. I’ve got some big shoes. ...If I can have that unique set of skills to fend off everything people say, I can take it. I can take it and continue to be successful.

“When you get a deal like that, everything comes with it. Everything is magnified times 10. You just have to be [careful] of that.”

The new role is a change for Norman, who has seen himself as an underdog for most of his career.

"Once I was the underdog and I had to fight my way to the top and I had to drive, drive, drive and continue to work hard," Norman said. "I'm no longer the underdog. ...This is a new realm for me."

Norman will also have a television role this season, and will be featured on the Fox pregame show most Sundays. 

He was named a first-team All-Pro last season after recording 48 tackles and four interceptions in 16 starts.