For the past month or so, Patriots fans have begged and pleaded for the Patriots to consider making a play with free agent or francise tagged to be defensive end / outside linebacker Julius Players. At first I balked at the idea, epsecially at the idea of trading him for Cassel. But tonight, I received a tip saying that Peppers and the Patriots had mutual interest. Then, rumor came of a radio station in North Carolina reporting that the Patriots have interest in Peppers. I really am doubting the validity of this rumor, but I'll throw it out there anyways.
The Facts:
Julius Peppers wants to play for a 3-4 team
Julius Peppers wants to play for an elite team
Julius Peppers has never played 3-4 outside linebacker
The Patriots have less than $7 million in cap space
The Panthers offered Peppers a near record contract for a defensive player
There are reportedly four teams with mutual interest in Julius Peppers. The Cowboys, two other NFC teams, and one AFC team.
The Patriots already have Mike Vrabel, Shawn Crable, Adalius Thomas, and Tully Banta-Cain under contract at outside linebacker, with Pierre Woods a restricted free agent and likely to receive a tender.
The Unconfirmed
The Patriots are that unnamed AFC team
The Panthers will franchise Peppers
The Panthers are unhappy with their current quarterback situation
While I still doubt the Pats will make a move for Peppers, I had to throw this rumor out there. Again, it is completely unconfirmed. 95% of the "tips" I get are complete trash from fans trying to stir something up, but then I saw it floating around other places.
Also, keep in mind, if the Pats were to acquire Peppers, they would have to work out a long term deal to sign him. They could also save cap room by backloading his contract.
Again, take this with a grain of salt until I can get something with a little substance.
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"If Tom Brady went to the hospital to have his throwing arm amputed, Hoodie would still list him as questionable." - Jim Rome
The thing I say with Peppers is that he has no linebacker experience. None. Now I'll admit that I haven't watched much of Peppers over the years, but he seems like a him-first type of player, when the Patriots are clearly team-first.
I don't want to even think about what might happen if Peppers is trying to guard speedy tight ends like Antonio Gates.
The thing I say with Peppers is that he has no linebacker experience. None. Now I'll admit that I haven't watched much of Peppers over the years, but he seems like a him-first type of player, when the Patriots are clearly team-first.
I don't want to even think about what might happen if Peppers is trying to guard speedy tight ends like Antonio Gates.
well actually u should think about it.
i dont know who remembers but peppers used to be one hell of a shot blocker for north carolina. great defender must of had some good fluidity and speed too. that makes me think that he could be good in pass coverage.
imagine the 6 foot 7 julius peppers swatting passes out there.
oh and by the way sorry i hadnt been on the forums for a long time but i just saw some activity going on so i thougth i would check it out. but ive obviously still been reading the blog
