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Julius Peppers' relationship with the Panthers has been more up-and-down over the past few seasons than his production. First he wanted the Panthers to let him leave in free agency, then he wanted a long-term deal, now he wants to explore free agency.Peppers has said that the Panthers have not contacted him or his agent about a long-term contract and that their "silence says a lot without saying anything."
There should be several teams targeting Peppers in free agent, 4-3 and 3-4 teams alike, even though he has been very inconsistent over the past three years.
He was only able to accrue 2.5 sacks in 2007, then rebounded with 14.5 sacks in 2008, and seemed to level off in 2009 with 10.5 sacks. He also added two interceptions and five forced fumbles, earning him a trip to the Pro Bowl.
He's a freakish athlete with incredible talent, but teams may not be able to see past his inconsistencies and perceived lack of effort on some plays. In fact, back in 2002, then-defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio approached Peppers about that very same issue.
"I told him just because it doesn't look like I'm running as hard as the next man with my arms swinging, sweating and breathing hard doesn't mean I'm not trying as hard," Peppers said. "I'm still trying hard, it just doesn't look like it. I do it easier."
It's still possible that the Panthers franchise Peppers, but that would mean a $20.1 million price tag and bonuses for a Pro Bowl nod and every playoff win. It's an incredibly high number, and something the Panthers most likely will not pay. Carolina has until the 25th of February to slap the tag on Peppers again.
Expect Peppers to hit the free agent market on March 5th, and be signed somewhere very shortly thereafter.
