With the Entire League Interested, the NFL Is Julius Peppers' Playground

The media is buzzing, the scouts are watching, and NFL writers are having an overly fun time speculating the endless possibilities for the current star defensive end Julius Peppers, who is now, as of 2010, an official free agent.

For most NFL players, or any professional athlete for that matter, signing with a new team or coach is often one of the toughest and hardest decisions to make.  Some players excel, while others fade.  Julius Peppers of the Carolina Panthers, though, doesn't fit into either category.

With the league interested, and the world at his feet, Julius Peppers will have no problem finding a new team in 2010—that's if he wants one.  The hometown boy out of Bailey, NC, Peppers was recently asked for his take on his possible new home, come next season.

"Anywhere is a potential landing spot, I'm not going to say I want to play for any team or I prefer to play anywhere because I really haven't thought about it. I haven't thought about playing for X, Y or Z."

At the moment Julius seems to be more focused on the Pro Bowl.  A rarity in the league at this point, Peppers is actually excited to play in the newly titled "exhibition game" come 7:20 PM tomorrow evening.  Maybe it's the $1.5 million bonus talking, or maybe it's the fact that the young man is simply carefree about his future in the NFL, and is enjoying every moment while it lasts.

Whatever it may be, Peppers is a breath of fresh air, and a joy to watch on and off the field.  Often conducting himself in a humorous yet professional manner, Peppers serves up that hometown Carolina boy type feel whenever his presence is heard.

Personality aside, there will come a time where action is needed.  Whether it's before or after the draft, Julius needs a team, and he needs one bad.  A hunch tells me though, with 2 interceptions, 5 forced fumbles, and 10.5 sacks in 2009, Peppers will be like a kid in a candy store when it comes to picking a new team, except he only has 32 options.

With the Panthers fizzling out from their impressive 2008 form, to a dismal 8-8 this season, Peppers is left with a decision that could ultimately come down to more than just money.  This time, it is about pride, glory and his heart.  Coming from Carolina, his soul is with the Panthers, and as the saying goes "Home is where the heart is."

However, should Julius really feel to obligated to stay with Carolina?  He's given all he has to give to the Panthers, and still no Super Bowl ring has come of it.  Would it really be that wrong of him to turn his back on his original team?

Of course not.  Nearly every player done it, or at least considered it.  Terrell Owens left San Francisco, Brett Favre left Green Bay and Jay Cutler left Denver.  It really wouldn't be that dramatic if Julius was to leave Carolina, no matter what connection he has with the fans.

As mentioned earlier, the possibilities are endless for Peppers.  With many underperforming teams seeking a dominant defensive player that could spark some magic on their team, Julius would have no problem finding a job.  But what teams would be the best fit for the 6'7", 283-pound giant?

As far as I'm concerned, it can be narrowed down to three choices.

1. Chicago Bears

Yes, it may seem an unlikely pick, but the Bears are a team that is being scrutinized for their lack of effort and motivation in seeking key players during the offseason.  Don't be surprised to see Lovie Smith go after Julius Peppers, especially considering that Chicago is ranked 17th overall on defense in the NFL.

Peppers could provide the protection that the Bears need in stopping the run.  Chicago had a poor season that was the result of pathetic quarterback play and un-Bear like defensive play.  Constantly getting burned on inside runs and outside pitches, Peppers could plug some holes that are desperately due for filling.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars

Another poor defensive team, the Jaguars finished their 2009 campaign ranked 23rd in overall defense.  Not much is expected, though, of a team that has great talent but fails to utilize it.

With that said, a switch from the NFC to the AFC could be good for Julius, and although Florida is a totally different climate than what Julius may be used to, the Jaguars could put him to good use.  With his sack total being as high as it is, the AFC is a conference that depends on good quarterback play and dominant defensive stands. 

Not likely to rally the Colts anytime soon, the Jaguars are looking at a possible Washington Redskin type situation in the AFC South.  Possibly falling behind Indianapolis, Tennessee and Houston next season, Peppers could keep the Jaguars in the hunt for a playoff berth they so surely desire.

3. Green Bay Packers

Last but not least, the Packers.  Okay, so the Packers are pretty sound defensively, right?  Yes.  But imagine the trade possibilities.  Aaron Kampman for Julius Peppers?  It gets me excited just writing it.  With the change to the 3-4 working successfully and Dom Capers in firm control of the show, the Packers are the laid back type of team that would let Julius express himself in any way he likes.

Ted Thompson is not known for being the best recruiter in the league, but he does know talent when he sees it.  It's not set in stone, but it's something just to consider.  However, If Ted comes a' knocking, Julius may just come a' signing.

Simply put, there is no need to panic if your a Panther fan, NFL fan or Julius fan.  His future is fine.  The concern may be money, but that is something for Peppers to decide upon himself. 

Either way you look at it, Julius is either staying or going.  Still with a long career ahead of him, and a bundle of talent that any team would love to have, a new home may be the only option for a man that has given his all for the Carolina Panthers. 

Sit back and enjoy it, he may just snatch a few headlines from Brett Favre this season, and I'm sure your not going to complain about that, right?