Peppers doesn't want to "cripple" Panthers, self

Peppers doesn't want to "cripple" Panthers, self
January 12
Charlotte Observer
"While not stating whether or not he wants to remain with the Panthers, Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers said today he didn't want his impending free agency situation to leave himself or the team "crippled."

"Ideally, I want to be in the best situation possible for myself and for this organization," Peppers said Sunday after the team's had its farewell meeting following Saturday night's 33-13 playoff loss to Arizona. "I'm thankful for everything they've done for me.

"I don't want to leave them crippled or in a bad situation and I don't want to do that to myself either. Whatever works out best for both sides is what I'm comfortable with."

Peppers' contract is due to expire soon, which would make him an unrestricted free agent unless the Panthers sign him to an extension or put their franchise tag on him.

If Carolina franchises him -- which appears almost certain if a deal doesn't get done -- they would have to make him a one-year tender offer of around $17 million. The Panthers also could franchise him and then trade him to another team."
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If he were sincere about not "crippling" the organization or himself, he would have already signed. How many millions does it take to not "cripple" yourself? 5? 10? 20?

Sounds like Charles Johnson is going to have some big shoes to fill.