Panthers Slap Franchise Tag on Peppers

The Carolina Panthers locked down some crucial last-minute moves yesterday, placing the franchise tag on defensive end Julius Peppers after reaching an agreement for a contract extension with left tackle Jordan Gross. The chain reaction started with Gross, who signed s six-year deal worth more than $30 million in his first three seasons, becoming one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in the league. After securing the All-Pro tackle, the Panthers next went after Peppers, franchising him just moments after the Gross deal went through. Placing the franchise tag on Julius Peppers was nothing unexpected for the team, which now could trade Peppers and get something (or someone) in return.

Peppers’ agent Carl Carey came out with a written statement after the deal, saying, “Julius was expecting to be franchised. We will continue to work toward a resolution that is in line with his professional goals.” Because Peppers is now wrapped up in a non-exclusive franchise tag, he will be offered a one-year deal of $16.7 million. He can still ask for offers from other teams, but in return for his trade to another team, the Panthers will demand two first-round draft picks from the team signing him. Stay tuned to follow the Peppers story as it continues unraveling!

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