Peppers likely leaving Carolina

[thebow305]

Per Adam Schefter on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/ADAM_SCHEFTER

And Per ESPN:
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4875540

Big News Here! Obviously nothing official yet though.

Thoughts!?

[thebow305]

Where do you guys think he ends up if he leaves Carolina?

[JFLO]

He has stated before that he wants to go to a 3-4 team, right?

Miami, New England...or keep an eye out for Washington.

[Jakey]

Denver????

[thebow305]

Oh my, I just thought about Peppers lining up opposite Cam Wake at OLB for us....

http://www.bestweekever.tv/bwe/images/2008/12/ANDY%20SAM%20JIZZ.jpg

[senormysterioso]

I saw him talking to Jared Allen on the sideline at the Pro Bowl and I got this awful feeling that he might sign with the Vikes. God save us all!

[The Unseen]

Peppers to the Jaguars!

(hey I can dream)

[Go_Eagles77]

Eagles do need a DE.

[singe_101]

AP, JP, and JA. Sounds good.

[prock]

bring him to minny baby!

[gpngc]

It's an uncapped year.

Washington, Dallas, and Seattle will spend like mad men. Not sure about the frugality of the other large-market owners like Robert Kraft.

I think Seattle actually makes a lot of sense. They need help everywhere and they can offer him a gigantic contract. Their DE's are terrible and Kerney retired.

[thenewfeature06]

bring him to minny baby!

That wouldn't even be fair..

[RAVENS/WIZARDS/ORIOLES]

Peppers/Gregg/Ngata on the Ravens D-line would be monster. Ravens need a 10+ sack guy.

[Paul]

bring him to minny baby!

Not a Ray Edwards fan?

[prock]

Peppers/Gregg/Ngata on the Ravens D-line would be monster. Ravens need a 10+ sack guy.

peppers would probably be a olb in a 3-4

[Splat]

I think if a 3-4 team breaks the bank on him they are going to be let down.

[prock]

Not a Ray Edwards fan?

love ray ray as much as anyone, but peppers >>>> edwards

[RAVENS/WIZARDS/ORIOLES]

peppers would probably be a olb in a 3-4

Well Peppers/Ngata/Gregg/Pryce with Suggs/Ray//Johnson would be a sick front 7.

[TitleTown088]

I saw him talking to Jared Allen on the sideline at the Pro Bowl and I got this awful feeling that he might sign with the Vikes. God save us all!

They have Ray Edwards. No need for him.

[tjsunstein]

Not surprised he's leaving, I just hope he goes to the AFC.

[RAVENS/WIZARDS/ORIOLES]

Well Peppers/Ngata/Gregg/Pryce with Suggs/Ray//Johnson would be a sick front 7.

Actually Peppers/Ngata/Gregg/Suggs on the line with Ellerbe/Ray/Johnson as LB's. I like that.

[Stranger]

bring him to minny baby!

With the new rules coming in next year I don't think Minny would be able to sign him (they would have to lose someone in FA that makes as much or more than he would).

I think Carolina tags him and trades him for whatever they can get.

[Kramer]

I hope he likes cheesteaks and brotherly love!

[RaiderNation]

Come on Al throw some money at him

[619]

Come on Al throw some money at him

Seymour is going to need to do some serious recruiting for us to even be mentioned in such sweepstakes.

[descendency]

I'd laugh if the Raiders let Seymour walk back to NE. Yea, there is almost no chance that Julius Peppers isn't at least considered in NE. Adalius Thomas got a good contract despite being a free agent. I think he'll be cut in the off-season and the Patriots may go after a Peppers. Of course, the order that happens in is not necessarily set. I think they will dump Thomas after the cap penalty is gone though.

[superman8456]

Philadelphia would be a viable option. We usually get one big FA each offseason over the past couple of years.

[gpngc]

No one seems to be answering the most important question: will your team break the bank?

None of the final eight can sign him, that much is known.

Beyond that, the small market teams (BUF, JAC, GB, etc.) aren't going to pay him a huge contract.

What I do know is that Dallas, Washington, and Seattle will all spend like nuts.

The Steelers won't spend big bucks. Jets and Giants- I don't know. Same for Philly and New England.

Oh, and Arthur Blank definitely would offer him a gigantic deal in Atlanta.

[D-Unit]

I think he may end up with the Ravens.

[CLong4Heisman]

Jets. 3-4 defense. Woody Johnson is a big spender and if Rex wants him....

[gpngc]

Ravens can't sign him unless they lose someone to free agency of the same value ($-wise).

Therefore, it is highly unlikely that the Ravens will sign him.

EDIT: LOL, neither can the Jets.

[619]

No one seems to be answering the most important question: will your team break the bank?

None of the final eight can sign him, that much is known.

Beyond that, the small market teams (BUF, JAC, GB, etc.) aren't going to pay him a huge contract.

What I do know is that Dallas, Washington, and Seattle will all spend like nuts.

The Steelers won't spend big bucks. Jets and Giants- I don't know. Same for Philly and New England.

Oh, and Arthur Blank definitely would offer him a gigantic deal in Atlanta.

Well, if that's the case ... OAKLAND!

Why not? Al Davis would break the bank, DE is a major need, and you cannot underestimate Seymour's recruiting abilities being one of the most well-respected players around the league. Just sayin' :rolleyes:

[gpngc]

Well, if that's the case ... OAKLAND!

Why not? Al Davis would break the bank, DE is a major need, and you cannot underestimate Seymour's recruiting abilities being one of the most well-respected players around the league. Just sayin' :rolleyes:

Definitely a huge possibility. I don't think you need to do much recruiting- a lot of dudes go where the best offer is regardless.

From a football standpoint, adding Peppers to OAK and then perhaps addressing some other positions in FA and the draft could make them into a rock-solid defense.

[crossroads]

Well, if that's the case ... OAKLAND!

Why not? Al Davis would break the bank, DE is a major need, and you cannot underestimate Seymour's recruiting abilities being one of the most well-respected players around the league. Just sayin' :rolleyes:

I actually think this is possible, especially if Peppers takes a "sign with the highest bidder" approach. He's uber athletic, fits a need, and we all know Al Davis ain't afraid to break the bank.

[vikes_28]

Peppers to the Vikings would be sick. But not likely. I also am not too fond of the idea of having 100 million invested in a defensive line. Ray Edwards is about the same as Peppers these days. I think he'll go to the Ravens or Dolphins.

[gpngc]

Peppers to the Vikings would be sick. But not likely. I also am not too fond of the idea of having 100 million invested in a defensive line. Ray Edwards is about the same as Peppers these days. I think he'll go to the Ravens or Dolphins.

The only way it is possible is if Ray Edwards got an equal contract to Peppers = no chance.

[BlindSite]

Carolina traditionally never has contract talks until a certain time after the season ends and based off the ends we have currently, Johnson, Taylor, Brayton, Brown it's forseeable the Panthers allow him to walk without putting the tag on him.

imo, They'll make him a good offer that he'll likely turn down and Carolina will sign some form of help on the line and look to use the money to sure up other positions like WR which is much more in need of depth and replenishment.

I love Peppers and some of his plays and presence will be irreplaceable, but if Johnson starts, I feel confident in his ability and the ability of the two rotational guys to pick up 10 sacks between them.

There's a lot of reason to keep him, but 15million a year for him when he's likely only got another 3-4 seasons in him, when the team is aging at some other positions, just isn't worth it.

I hope they can get the deal done, but Carolina will survive without him.

The patriots are a possibility, I doubt he'd head to washington, maybe Philly, maybe the 49ers might throw something at him, I think the browns are definitely out, who knows, maybe the Jets.

[descendency]

Carolina won't tag him. Isn't the number going to be like 22 million or something? I don't know how it works, but I know it's over 20. Then he could get another 1.5 for the pro-bowl (easily in his range) and another 1 or 1.5 (i forget which) for the super bowl. If 22 is right, that's 25 million for one year. No team is going to pay that to one player.

[thule]

I remember he said he wanted to play for Dallas...but I highly doubt Jerry would shell out more money with the emergence of Spencer. Some food for thought tho.

[21ST]

Mite as well come the the redskins no doubt dan would pay

[Gay Ork Wang]

Bears....not.

[Nalej]

I'd laugh if the Raiders let Seymour walk back to NE. Yea, there is almost no chance that Julius Peppers isn't at least considered in NE. Adalius Thomas got a good contract despite being a free agent. I think he'll be cut in the off-season and the Patriots may go after a Peppers. Of course, the order that happens in is not necessarily set. I think they will dump Thomas after the cap penalty is gone though.


Exactly. We'll cut Thomas and snatch up Peppers. Game Over.

[RealityCheck]

We are going to get Peppers, Dumervil and Marshall. Just see.

[Nalej]

We are going to get Peppers, Dumervil and Marshall. Just see.


If that happened then Pluto would become a Planet again.
Lets do this for Pluto. It's lonely out there.

[RealityCheck]

If that happened then Pluto would become a Planet again.
Lets do this for Pluto. It's lonely out there.
SAVE PLUTO!!!!!!!!!

[bigbluedefense]

Id be weary of signing Peppers. He's only dominant when he feels like playing.

And lately, he hasn't felt like playing much. Giving a huge contract to a guy like that is risky business.

[Nalej]

I'll take 10.5 sacks, 5 FF and 2 Ints from a slacker... easily
Its easy to slack off when u know u aren't playing for anything
Granted, I'm not trying to give him an excuse since he is getting paid so he shoudn't slack off ever
playing for a team thats always in the Playoffs and has a real shot at a Super Bowl title will probably give him that extra gear he's been missing in Carolina

[JFLO]

**** PLUTO!!!

[bigbluedefense]

I'll take 10.5 sacks, 5 FF and 2 Ints from a slacker... easily
Its easy to slack off when u know u aren't playing for anything
Granted, I'm not trying to give him an excuse since he is getting paid so he shoudn't slack off ever
playing for a team thats always in the Playoffs and has a real shot at a Super Bowl title will probably give him that extra gear he's been missing in Carolina

You'd pay 100 million dollars for that? Bc I wouldn't.

Especially with pass rushers becoming easier and easier to find, and this draft being loaded.

Especially for 3-4 teams. Why spend 100 million on Peppers when you have Morgan, Graham, Kindle, and Norwood in the draft?

[RealityCheck]

I'll take 10.5 sacks, 5 FF and 2 Ints from a slacker... easily
Its easy to slack off when u know u aren't playing for anything
Granted, I'm not trying to give him an excuse since he is getting paid so he shoudn't slack off ever
playing for a team thats always in the Playoffs and has a real shot at a Super Bowl title will probably give him that extra gear he's been missing in Carolina
Add stars like Brady, Moss, Welker, Tebow, Gerhart, Marshall, Dumervil, Mayo and Meriweather as your teammates. And a coach that never gives up and always goes for it on 4th and 2.

[Nalej]

You'd pay 100 million dollars for that? Bc I wouldn't.

Especially with pass rushers becoming easier and easier to find, and this draft being loaded.

Especially for 3-4 teams. Why spend 100 million on Peppers when you have Morgan, Graham, Kindle, and Norwood in the draft?


I guess what I left out was- I'd only want him if he took a "NE- SB Bound Discount"
Still pay him a lot but not the ridiculous amount that it looks like he's going to make elsewhere

I strongly disagree with this "pass rushers are easy find" claim
The Patriots had NONE last year. We need several desperately.
So just because we sign Peppers doesn't mean we change our draft
An OLB pass rusher is still a 1 rd need. Adding Kindle, Hughes or Graham would be great

Add stars like Brady, Moss, Welker, Tebow, Gerhart, Marshall, Dumervil, Mayo and Meriweather as your teammates. And a coach that never gives up and always goes for it on 4th and 2.

Dont' get a head of yourself. Tebow, Gerhart, Marshall and Dumervil are far from locks to NE

[RealityCheck]

I guess what I left out was- I'd only want him if he took a "NE- SB Bound Discount"
Still pay him a lot but not the ridiculous amount that it looks like he's going to make elsewhere

I strongly disagree with this "pass rushers are easy find" claim
The Patriots had NONE last year. We need several desperately.
So just because we sign Peppers doesn't mean we change our draft
An OLB pass rusher is still a 1 rd need. Adding Kindle, Hughes or Graham would be great
Come on, don't be that mean. We had Banta-Cain...

[Splat]

Add stars like Brady, Moss, Welker, Tebow, Gerhart, Marshall, Dumervil, Mayo and Meriweather as your teammates. And a coach that never gives up and always goes for it on 4th and 2.

Do you really think NE is going to get both Marshall and Dumervil?

[bigbluedefense]

You guys lack pass rushers bc Bellichick just hasn't pursued any. Its not like you tried and failed. The Pats just haven't went after any yet.

But there are plenty of rushers in every draft these days. This year we have Morgan, Graham, Kindle, and Norwood.

Last year we had Orakpo, Matthews, the Penn State kid (forgetting his name), Kruger, Brown, Sintim, English, etc.

DEs aren't that hard to find anymore.

[Nalej]

The Pats didn't pursue any? We drafted S.Crable- signed A.Thomas and Banta Cain then traded for Burgess.
How exactly have we not pursued a pass rusher?

[bigbluedefense]

The Pats didn't pursue any? We drafted S.Crable- signed A.Thomas and Banta Cain then traded for Burgess.
How exactly have we not pursued a pass rusher?

Im talking about in the draft. Crable was a 3rd round pick. That doesn't count.

[scar988]

I'd take him in Atlanta in a heartbeat. with Babineaux and Jerry inside causing pressure and Peppers and Abraham outside, we would be sick nasty in the pass rush.

[Nalej]

uh? That's 4 OLBs right there. Why would we draft more when we have other needs that need to be addressed?
I'm simply stating that ur claim that we didn't have pass rushers bc we didn't pursue them is false. We did but they sucked.
Crable is on IR again, A.Thomas sucks, Burgess can only stop the run and Banta Cain is only a decent pass rusher.
Kindle/Graham/Hughes/JPP would be great additions. Peppers would just be icing on the cake.
With that said- I can't think of many teams that wouldn't want Pepperson their team if it was financially possible

[bigbluedefense]

eh, Im just not a fan of big name FAs for the most part. 90% of the time, they aren't worth the investment.

Especially at positions that are easily replaceable, like RB, DE, LB.

Id spend top dollar on CB, WR, LT. I think those positions usually warrant the cost.

[the decider13]

Add stars like Brady, Moss, Welker, Tebow, Gerhart, Marshall, Dumervil, Mayo and Meriweather as your teammates. And a coach that never gives up and always goes for it on 4th and 2.

If only Marshall and Doom were RFAs....oh wait. Unless you have an ass load of picks to give up, I imagine they will both need a first and third, you can forget about it.

[nepg]

I think New England was the biggest player for him last year, and I think they will be again this year.

[MichaelJordanEberle (sabf)]

Id be weary of signing Peppers. He's only dominant when he feels like playing.

And lately, he hasn't felt like playing much. Giving a huge contract to a guy like that is risky business.

I didn't try to quote this one, but I figure since I accidentally did anyway I'll just say that I agree. I wouldn't want him on Denver for the price he'll command, that's for sure. Too inconsistent for my liking, plus there isn't a lot of precedent for 6'6"+ 280 lb 3-4 OLBs having success.

If only Marshall and Doom were RFAs....oh wait. Unless you have an ass load of picks to give up, I imagine they will both need a first and third, you can forget about it.

Don't let the facts get in the way of his fantasies!

[FlyingElvis]

I wouldn't mind Peppers in NE but the cost may be too much. He's 30 and will want a long term contract - 5year, most likely.

Maybe he's worth 8-10 million per year for the next 3 years, but I can't see any way he's worth the last few years.

That said, I like the idea of him coming to NE this off-season at a cost of zero draft picks. Last year it would have been way to expensive to pay his contract cost and draft pick cost.

[vidae]

I'm surprised anyone wants him on their team. He was a gigantic douche on the Panthers last season. I have a buddy who is a die hard Panthers fan and he'd be ecstatic to see him go, talent or no.

[SchizophrenicBatman]

Id be weary of signing Peppers. He's only dominant when he feels like playing.

And lately, he hasn't felt like playing much. Giving a huge contract to a guy like that is risky business.

I said it in the last thread, he'll have a monster season with whoever he signs next year then check out for the remainder of the contract

[Rosebud]

eh, Im just not a fan of big name FAs for the most part. 90% of the time, they aren't worth the investment.

Especially at positions that are easily replaceable, like RB, DE, LB.

Id spend top dollar on CB, WR, LT. I think those positions usually warrant the cost.

I don't know if I'd call DE a position that's easily replaceable. We've had great success developing talent at the position, but that's not the case for a lot of teams. There's a reason why DE is one of the more highly valued positions in the draft, alongside QB, LT and DT afterall.

[senormysterioso]

I kind of hope he comes to Green Bay. He kind of reminds me of a combination of the two big free agent moves we've made in our franchise history. Charles Woodson, because of the percieved attitude problems and Reggie White because he's a great pass rusher. If it worked out anything like those situations, we'd be set.

[fear the elf]

I don't know if I'd call DE a position that's easily replaceable. We've had great success developing talent at the position, but that's not the case for a lot of teams. There's a reason why DE is one of the more highly valued positions in the draft, alongside QB, LT and DT afterall.

This is exactly what I was thinking. Since when did getting after the passer with a stud DE become easily replaceable? I thought that's why they get paid such ludicrous salaries. Why they are constantly being drafted in the first round.

Just because the Giants have a glut of pass rushers doesn't mean the rest of us do. Jerk. ;)

[bigbluedefense]

100 million for Peppers though?

Ware is worth 100 million. Peppers?....not so much.



There are a lot of DEs in this league better than Julius Peppers. He doesn't deserve that kind of paycheck. People are still in love with his measurables, which is why he's being overvalued, even to this day.

[fear the elf]

100 million for Peppers though?

Ware is worth 100 million. Peppers?....not so much.



There are a lot of DEs in this league better than Julius Peppers. He doesn't deserve that kind of paycheck. People are still in love with his measurables, which is why he's being overvalued, even to this day.

Well, yeah, this is true. I wouldn't pay 100 mil to Peppers and I'm a freaking Browns fan. We have almost no pass rush.

But as a DE with crazy talent and the ability to live up to it at times, I still think he has value for a lot of teams out there, for the right price.

That being said, I bet he gets at least close to that 100 mil because, just like with the draft, someone will fall in love with what he can be, and not what he has shown (lately, anyway).

[SeanTaylorRIP]

We don't know how he will look as a 3-4 OLB but if he comes to Washington who will pay him the highest on paper that is a ridiculous LB group. Peppers and Orakpo at OLB, and Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher in the middle. Haynesworth would play NT although not sure how he will take to that. Hell I bet he'd rather play DE in a 3-4. The guy who I would have no idea about is Andre Carter. He's smallish for a 3-4 DE and he showed in San Francisco that playing a 3-4 OLB isn't his strong suit. Still unsure of what defense we will run here but with Shanny and Haslett you'd have to think that 3-4 might be in the works.

[senormysterioso]

We don't know how he will look as a 3-4 OLB but if he comes to Washington who will pay him the highest on paper that is a ridiculous LB group. Peppers and Orakpo at OLB, and Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher in the middle. Haynesworth would play NT although not sure how he will take to that. Hell I bet he'd rather play DE in a 3-4. The guy who I would have no idea about is Andre Carter. He's smallish for a 3-4 DE and he showed in San Francisco that playing a 3-4 OLB isn't his strong suit. Still unsure of what defense we will run here but with Shanny and Haslett you'd have to think that 3-4 might be in the works.

6-6 290 is about ideal size for a 3-4 end, but I would much rather see him stand up and get after the QB.

[nepg]

I'm surprised anyone wants him on their team. He was a gigantic douche on the Panthers last season. I have a buddy who is a die hard Panthers fan and he'd be ecstatic to see him go, talent or no.

Corey Dillon/Randy Moss syndrome. Put him on a good team, and he'll be a great guy.

[bigbluedefense]

We don't know how he will look as a 3-4 OLB but if he comes to Washington who will pay him the highest on paper that is a ridiculous LB group. Peppers and Orakpo at OLB, and Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher in the middle. Haynesworth would play NT although not sure how he will take to that. Hell I bet he'd rather play DE in a 3-4. The guy who I would have no idea about is Andre Carter. He's smallish for a 3-4 DE and he showed in San Francisco that playing a 3-4 OLB isn't his strong suit. Still unsure of what defense we will run here but with Shanny and Haslett you'd have to think that 3-4 might be in the works.

Haynesworth would be a better 3-4 DE than NT, although he can do both. But his pass rushing skills would be limited at NT.

You guys will probably run a 1 gap 3-4 anyway, which is the same thing as a 4-3 Under scheme, just with your RE standing up.

You wouldn't need to touch the front 7 to make the switch.

[FlyingElvis]

Corey Dillon/Randy Moss syndrome. Put him on a good team, and he'll be a great guy.

He was a giant douche in 2008 when the Panthers were the best team in the NFC. They were expected to be strong again this season since they lost nothing in the off-season yet he was still a giant douche.

Disgruntled guys playing for perennial losers are usually afflicted with the "My team sucks" blues. Peppers is just a dick who chooses when he will and won't bother giving the effort.

[Don Vito]

Especially for 3-4 teams. Why spend 100 million on Peppers when you have Morgan, Graham, Kindle, and Norwood in the draft?

Common logic would suggest that we would take one of those guys since we need a young linebacker. However, we needed one last year too and we traded out of the first and passed on guys like Matthews and Maualuga. If we draft one (or more) of them I would be thrilled but right now I'm game for adding to our pass rush by any means necessary.

[bigbluedefense]

Common logic would suggest that we would take one of those guys since we need a young linebacker. However, we needed one last year too and we traded out of the first and passed on guys like Matthews and Maualuga. If we draft one (or more) of them I would be thrilled but right now I'm game for adding to our pass rush by any means necessary.

It must be so frustrating being a fan of the draft, and a Pats fan.

Bc you go into the draft expecting 1 thing, and the Pats always throw you a bunch of curve balls on draft day and leave you confused haha.

They always go against the grain. It works for them in most cases though, you gotta give them that.

They're unconventional in their methods, but it works.

[RealityCheck]

If only Marshall and Doom were RFAs....oh wait. Unless you have an ass load of picks to give up, I imagine they will both need a first and third, you can forget about it.
We have 2 firsts in 2011, we can do it.

[descendency]

We have 2 firsts in 2011, we can do it.

I'd rather spend one of those firsts on Brandon Graham and one on Mark Ingram or maybe even one of the top 3 WRs next year. Or if it's the number 1 pick, maybe Jake Locker.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

I know everyone is saying how he'd be perfect for their team, but since it's already been thrown around as a very realistic possibility... Atlanta. Not afraid to spend money on a desperate need, and Arthur will do anything to get a winner. Not to mention, the offense doesn't need much work, it's just a few pieces we needed on defense. DE being the top or 2nd need for our team.

[Nalej]

I'd rather spend one of those firsts on Brandon Graham and one on Mark Ingram or maybe even one of the top 3 WRs next year. Or if it's the number 1 pick, maybe Jake Locker.

Exactly... this

[clay_allison]

I know everyone is saying how he'd be perfect for their team, but since it's already been thrown around as a very realistic possibility... Atlanta. Not afraid to spend money on a desperate need, and Arthur will do anything to get a winner. Not to mention, the offense doesn't need much work, it's just a few pieces we needed on defense. DE being the top or 2nd need for our team.

Peppers and Abraham could be pretty awesome for a couple of years, maybe bringing in Peppers can energize JA back to his 2008 level.

[Don Vito]

It must be so frustrating being a fan of the draft, and a Pats fan.

Bc you go into the draft expecting 1 thing, and the Pats always throw you a bunch of curve balls on draft day and leave you confused haha.

They always go against the grain. It works for them in most cases though, you gotta give them that.

They're unconventional in their methods, but it works.

Yeah it can be. I loved the Meriweather, Mayo, and Chad Jackson picks because they were all big talents at positions of need that we actually drafted. Usually, it doesn't work that way. I'm all for it when it works out, when we drafted Mankins I thought "who the hell is he" but he's turned out to be a great player. The Vollmer pick was a shocker as well and he looks good.

Our drafts in recent years haven't been as solid from top to bottom as they were in the earlier part of the decade, hopefully we go after pass rushers and linemen this year. That was our bread and butter during our Super Bowl years.

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Peppers and Abraham could be pretty awesome for a couple of years, maybe bringing in Peppers can energize JA back to his 2008 level.


That'd be awesome. Don't forget Babineaux who played at a Pro Bowl caliber level this season, and Peria Jerry who looked strong before his injury. There's a lot of talent on that DL, and they would certainly be able to get after the QB. But Jamaal Anderson is terrible. There is no other level for him. I'm not sure if that was sarcastic because he actually got 2 whole sacks that year, but he's ******* terrible.

[prock]

That'd be awesome. Don't forget Babineaux who played at a Pro Bowl caliber level this season, and Peria Jerry who looked strong before his injury. There's a lot of talent on that DL, and they would certainly be able to get after the QB. But Jamaal Anderson is terrible. There is no other level for him. I'm not sure if that was sarcastic because he actually got 2 whole sacks that year, but he's ******* terrible.

i think by JA he meant john abraham.

[d34ng3l021]

So far, it seems like Atlanta could be a front runner for Peppers, assuming an uncapped year.

Schefter initially said 3 teams were interested in him: Baltimore, Atlanta, New England.
Mort had 2, maybe 3 teams that may be interested in him: Atlanta, Jets, and maybe the Browns.
Schefter, on Mike and Mike, said he picks Atlanta to be his top prediction for Julius Peppers.

Assuming it is an uncapped year, I can see our owner, Arthur Blank (co-owner of Home Depot, bank as ****), breaking the bank for a position of dire need. I don't know how I would feel about it. I don't think Peppers has that much left in him, but could make an immediate impact...with Gonzalez on offense and possibly Peppers on defense, this team seems primed to make a run soon (and then later when Ryan becomes a complete boss). Atlanta seems to bring in 1 big time player each year (Turner 08, Gonzalez 09) and maybe Peppers is the one this year?

[Twinblade]

I don't think the pats are that type of team to spend $$$$$ on a defensive type player.

[steelernation77]

I don't think the pats are that type of team to spend $$$$$ on a defensive type player.

Adalius Thomas.

[CC.SD]

Adalius Thomas.

Didn't work out too well. Not that they can't try, try again but still. Somehow I think he'll end up a 9er.

[clay_allison]

The Pats defense needs pass rush in a big way. I wouldn't be surprised if they signed him.

[FlyingElvis]

Adalius Thomas & Rosy Colvin. The pats seem like the only positions they'll open up the checkbook to acquire are WR & LB.

CB & RB are less expensive FA veterans, but stud FA LBs apparently give BB a chubby.

[AntoinCD]

Adalius Thomas & Rosy Colvin. The pats seem like the only positions they'll open up the checkbook to acquire are WR & LB.

CB & RB are less expensive FA veterans, but stud FA LBs apparently give BB a chubby.

I think they will go after him or someone like Merriman in free agency if he's available. BB doesn't like starting young guys at OLB much

[FlyingElvis]

I think they will go after him or someone like Merriman in free agency if he's available. BB doesn't like starting young guys at OLB much

Damn you! I already told you to stop mentioning that other asshat's name!

[yourfavestoner]

Merriman in NE is definitely something I could see.

[prock]

Merriman in NE is definitely something I could see.

he needs his roids back.

[Twinblade]

I think Peppers will probably wind up in Atlanta, Peppers said he would like to play in a 3-4 but nothing is better than sticking it to your old team, twice a year.

Adalius Thomas.

Thomas hasn't worked out yet, I don't think they would spend more $$$ on somebody else for defense, then again I'm not a GM so I can't really tell you.

[CC.SD]

Merriman is getting tagged with at least a 1st round tender, is anyone going to give that up? I think not. He will be a bolt for one more year.

[J-Mike88]

Possible destination for Peppers?
(Disclaimer: I am not Michael Lombardi from the NFL Network)

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Diner-morning-news-How-the-Packers-can-improve.html

Here lies the problem for Thompson. He has a very good team that’s one solid offseason from competing for a Super Bowl title, but all his needs will not be met in just the draft. He has to be more open-minded in his approach to free agency and try to fix some of the current concerns on the team before the draft.
He should really give great thought to trying to add a player of the caliber of the Panthers’ Julius Peppers. If Peppers is a free agent, he’ll command a huge pay day, but he would be a perfect fit coming off the edge to help Clay Matthews rush. One more blue-chip player would really make a difference to the Packers on defense.

This is not to imply that Thompson should spend like a drunken sailor, but he should consider spending for quality. And he has to use every avenue available to improve his team because he can’t address every need in just the draft. He’s on the cusp of something very good in Green Bay, and he needs to just make a few moves to get this team over the top.

[Twinblade]

I think it all comes down to Atlanta and New England imo.

[Bucs_Rule]

For an uncapped year, you can sign him to a big contract and put a massive amount for the first year. The next few small and get big at the end, at which point the team likely would release him. That way it doesn't hurt the cap for the future.

If an Owner doesn't care too much about spending, such as big market teams, overpaying for Peppers wouldn't be a problem if you can do it in a way that doesn't screw you over in the future. For New England, that is huge as they wouldn't have the money to sign him unless they let Wilfork go.

For an uncapped year, you can sign him to a big contract and put a massive amount for the first year. The next few small and get big at the end, at which point the team likely would release him. That way it doesn't hurt the cap for the future.

If an Owner doesn't care too much about spending, such as big market teams, overpaying for Peppers wouldn't be a problem if you can do it in a way that doesn't screw you over in the future. For New England, that is huge as they wouldn't have the money to sign him unless they let Wilfork go.

He’s on the cusp of something very good in Green Bay, and he needs to just make a few moves to get this team over the top.

I strongly disagree with that. Green Bay looked great at the end of the season. The offense looked amazing with a very young Rodgers. The defense finished second. Aslong as the defense can figure out a way to stop bunch formations they will contend for years.

Getting Peppers would definitly help, but they are still contenders without him.

[DDP711]

Didn't work out too well. Not that they can't try, try again but still. Somehow I think he'll end up a 9er.

plz no!!! the niners would be better off w/o thomas then with him.

[SaintsMan]

I would take him on the Saints if he played hard very game. It's a shame that he takes so many plays off

[Nitschke-Hawk]

He'd be like Optimus Prime if he played hard all the time.

[ryno626]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-panthers-peppers&prov=ap&type=lgns

[BlindSite]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-panthers-peppers&prov=ap&type=lgns

Almost seems like a fake interview he's acting like such a petulant child.

[FlyingElvis]

I guess that means he didn't manage to get a clause in last years deal that prevented the Panthers from tagging him again this year.

[Monomach]

After being held to a career-low 2 1/2 sacks in 2007, the Panthers still offered to make Peppers the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player. Peppers on Tuesday provided conflicting reasons on why he rejected the contract.

“That deal was to make me the highest-paid defensive player, but slightly, very slightly,” Peppers said. “I didn’t really feel the sincerity behind that deal.”I've defended the guy a lot, but that's a tough statement to get behind.

He should have just politely said "I really don't enjoy playing in Carolina any longer. I'd like to try somewhere new."

[Splat]

I would be shocked if they tagged him at that price.

[FlyingElvis]

^ I concur.

But that's how I felt last year, too.

[BlindSite]

You can't blame the team, two years running they offered him a contract to make him the highest paid player in the NFL and he turned it down, they even alter the defense to make him happy then he says, "they don't wuv me" Carolina rarely does contracts during the season and with all the CBA **** in uproar it's not a surprise they don't have a massive contract waiting for him again.

He should just be patient.

[Matthew Jones]

I didn't want New England to trade a high second round pick for a one year rental but I wouldn't mind them picking him up in free agency, especially after the meltdown between Belichick and Adalius Thomas this past year.

[umphrey]

If he goes to a 3-4 he will fail. Not as bad as Kampman did but that's pretty much how the situation will go.

[CC.SD]

Honestly, is any team looking forward to giving a 30 year old with work ethic questions a megacontract? Peppers is a beast but financially it's going to be very difficult to justify signing him at the pricetag he'll command.

[PACKmanN]

Honestly, is any team looking forward to giving a 30 year old with work ethic questions a megacontract? Peppers is a beast but financially it's going to be very difficult to justify signing him at the pricetag he'll command.

Albert got a large contract with more question marks.

[CC.SD]

Albert got a large contract with more question marks.

Yeah but he wasn't 30, and elite DTs have been known to play well into their thirties. I would say Peppers is definitely a tougher call than Albert.

[FlyingElvis]

Yeah but he wasn't 30, and elite DTs have been known to play well into their thirties. I would say Peppers is definitely a tougher call than Albert.

I concur. At least one could make the argument that Fat Al had improved his attitude and was headed in the right direction after his suspension. Peppers has shown he's a lazy, inconsistent ass on an annual basis.

[killxswitch]

For an uncapped year, you can sign him to a big contract and put a massive amount for the first year. The next few small and get big at the end, at which point the team likely would release him. That way it doesn't hurt the cap for the future.

If an Owner doesn't care too much about spending, such as big market teams, overpaying for Peppers wouldn't be a problem if you can do it in a way that doesn't screw you over in the future. For New England, that is huge as they wouldn't have the money to sign him unless they let Wilfork go.

For an uncapped year, you can sign him to a big contract and put a massive amount for the first year. The next few small and get big at the end, at which point the team likely would release him. That way it doesn't hurt the cap for the future.

If an Owner doesn't care too much about spending, such as big market teams, overpaying for Peppers wouldn't be a problem if you can do it in a way that doesn't screw you over in the future. For New England, that is huge as they wouldn't have the money to sign him unless they let Wilfork go.


Doesn't the 30% rule apply here? Teams will definitely try to pay bonuses out next year as much as possible but I don't think they can get too ridiculous with it.

[FlyingElvis]

Doesn't the 30% rule apply here? Teams will definitely try to pay bonuses out next year as much as possible but I don't think they can get too ridiculous with it.

The 30% rule works the other way. So the top 8 can't offer a low salary for 2010 and double or triple it for the next season. It prevents backloaded contracts - probably the only good thing to come of this for the players since they can't have a giant salary in the final year only to be cut before they can earn it.

[Grizzlegom]

Oh my, I just thought about Peppers lining up opposite Cam Wake at OLB for us....

http://www.bestweekever.tv/bwe/images/2008/12/ANDY%20SAM%20JIZZ.jpg

It would be expensive but we're cutting porter so i'd love to see us get him. it would also help clear up which direction we'd go in the first round haha

[Splat]

Panthers don't plan to franchise Peppers (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/12/panthers-dont-plan-to-franchise-peppers/)

[BlindSite]

http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/18443/king-julius-wouldnt-wear-the-crown

Bumping this thread, to post this article, Yas has written books on Carolina and was the best analyst in the local media before going to ESPN and he knows his stuff when it comes to the team.

Perfectly put together portrait of the Peppers Panthers relationship.

[Bucs_Rule]

That is a very insightful article, I always wondered why he was wanted to get out of Carolina, not just more money.

When I was growing up my parents always wanted me to get better grades, study more like my older brother. It bothered the hell out of me, I can certainly understand why he would want to get out of their and go to a spot where he could be accept for who he is.

[BlindSite]

Even I cringed when Richardson almost demanded he become a leader. Leadership isn't something that can be assumed or taught, it's like being funny, there's techniques, but it's obvious when there's a natural and how much better at it they are.

[SaintsMan]

I'm starting to hope the Saints can somehow sign Peppers. We have a bunch of leaders, Pep can be Pep and get back at the Panthers twice a year.

[BlindSite]

Realistically with Beason and Harris on the defense there's plenty of leadership. Beason especially is turning into exactly who Dan Morgan was supposed to be, a great athletic middle linebacker who sets the field and gets everyone fired up.

Got to give credit to the FO for that pick, they targeted him from day one, had the balls to trade down and still got him.

[PACKmanN]

Well, he better be prepared to become some sort of leader if he gets paid top dollar. The leaders are usually the guys who make the most on each team.

[FlyingElvis]

Well, he better be prepared to become some sort of leader if he gets paid top dollar. The leaders are usually the guys who make the most on each team.

Which will just be another recipe for disaster, assuming this article has it right. Give the guy his money and tell him all he's expected to bust his ass every play in games and practices. Nothing more, nothing less.

I'm less concerned with him becoming a Patriot thanks to this article. If the FO/coaching staff can accept that the guy doesn't want to be a leader, captain or off-field hero, and they can deploy him in a way that gets solid effort regularly, I'm on board with Peppers to NE.

[V.I.P]

Julius Peppers will be allowed to test free agency from the Carolina Panthers.

[tjsunstein]

Julius Peppers will be allowed to test free agency from the Carolina Panthers.

Someone is going to overpay. Can't wait.

[FlyingElvis]

Someone is going to overpay. Can't wait.

It will be interesting to see what Peppers does now. He was paid massive money @ $1 Million per game [insert Dr. Evil here] and was offered the largest ever contract for a defensive player by Carolina but refused. So he doesn't seem to be interested in only money. No that he'll sign for weak money but it may not be a highest bidder game.

[Splat]

I think he will beast his first year and then start to half ass it again.

[Morton]

As a Philly fan, I'm both worried and elated at the prospect of Peppers being signed by Philadelphia.

He's either:

a.) going to come here and completely go into beast mode, destroying the offensive lines of the NFC East along with Trent Cole, and possibly take the team to a Super Bowl

or

b.) lay completely down after getting a fat contract, and generate like 0.5 sacks and 24 tackles next year, and greatly set the team back and piss off the fanbase like no other player in the history of the team


I can't see it happening any other way.

[GoRavens]

If Peppers goes to New England, living in Rhode Island is going to suck major ballsax..

[yourfavestoner]

They should just tag him and trade him straight up for Wilfork. It's too perfect.

[Morton]

They should just tag him and trade him straight up for Wilfork. It's too perfect.

They don't need to trade, he's a free agent now

[ATLDirtyBirds]

Not going to go crazy if we don't sign him, but I'd like to see some solid pursuit put in.

[yourfavestoner]

They don't need to trade, he's a free agent now

I'm aware of that. I'm saying they should have done it anyways.

[Splat]

Ya but if they could not work out a trade then they would be stuck with one player making 20 million for one season.

[yourfavestoner]

Ya but if they could not work out a trade then they would be stuck with one player making 20 million for one season.

They'd be able to rescind the tag if they couldn't find a partner. It's happened before.

[senormysterioso]

Report: Redskins Want Peppers (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/03/01/report-redskins-want-peppers/)

Who would have thought!?!?

But if they sign Peppers, they need to forget about playing the 3-4. A 4-3 front of Orakpo/Carter - Griffin - Haynesworth - Peppers would be insane.

[DiG]

Report: Redskins Want Peppers (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/03/01/report-redskins-want-peppers/)

Who would have thought!?!?

But if they sign Peppers, they need to forget about playing the 3-4. A 4-3 front of Orakpo/Carter - Griffin - Haynesworth - Peppers would be insane.

Based on what Shanahan said this past week the defense will be a 3-4 / 4-3 hybrid similar to the Ravens which means Orakpo/Peppers would play in an olb role as well as take snaps with their hand on the ground. Im not going to pretend that I wouldnt love Peppers. Anyone out there that says they wouldnt want to pay him bank in an uncapped year is lying.

[BlindSite]

Washington might want him, but apparently his has his own short list of teams, methinks they're contenders only which the Redskins certainly are not at this point.

[jayceheathman]

Yahoo posted that he signed with the Bears.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AhRQodpndDidaFjZQ31BmQk5nYcB?slug=tsn-juliuspeppersbearsfi&prov=tsn&type=lgns

[CC.SD]

It is now extremely likely that Peppers will leave Carolina!

[Sveen]

Can't say I'm sad to see him leave the division.

[CJSchneider]

Can't say I'm sad to see him leave the division.

I'll second that sentiment.

[RealityCheck]

It's official, Peppers is a Bear now.

[senormysterioso]

Can't say I'm sad to see him leave the division.

Can't say I'm happy to see him come to the division.



He's gonna eat Chad Clifton's lunch twice a year.