Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy is set to cash in following an epic season where he recorded 15 sacks.

He had four sacks against the Atlanta Falcons.

"It's all about the numbers with me," Hardy told Carolina reporters, via the Charlotte Observer. "I don't really have an end game to where I want to hustle or play around or play the market. I want a big number that I worked for, nothing imaginary. And if you don't believe me, tell me what you want me to do and I'll go do it for you. And then give me my number and we'll be good."

Hardy isn't against being named the Panthers' franchise player.

Last year, that was an $11.175 million franchise tag for defensive ends.

"I would love a franchise, man," Hardy said. "Add another year on my career. Get to play football a little bit longer without a contract, another year to be in Carolina to give them a chance to get their fiscal responsibilities in order so we can be here forever like Steve (Smith) and a lot of other guys like Thomas (Davis)."

What about a hometown discount?

"It's still discounted. If you take $10 million off $110 million, it's still $100 million," Hardy said. "That's not the case, but you know what I'm saying? It's a number, it's not ridiculous. But I want to be compensated and I want it to be what I deserve. And I will take a franchise tag if that's what it takes to get it done."

Follow me on Twitter: @RavensInsider

Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun.