Julius Peppers: Does He Stay or Go?

Much speculation has come up recently concerning Julius Pepper's status with the Carolina Panthers for next season.  

Many fans insist that it would be a huge mistake to let go of one of the top defensive players in the league.  However, some believe that it may be time to explore some other options.  The case is strong for both sides.

If the Panthers resign Peppers, there is no doubt that they have kept an amazing asset to their defense.  The real problem arises when they have to throw Jordan Gross into the equation.  He too will become a free agent this offseason and will also score a high-paying contract.

Gross is as much of an asset to the offensive line as Julius Peppers is to the defensive line and he has expressed that he wants to stay in Carolina. Most likely, they will come to an agreement regarding his re-signing.

Peppers, however, has not expressed in what direction he plans to go.  He has said that he wants to win and that he will make a decision that benefits both the Panthers and himself.  Some of his comments make it seem as if he is strongly considering going elsewhere.

So, if Peppers does decide he wants to go to another team, what would be the best situation for both sides?  Well, the Panthers have the option to slap the franchise tag on him for next season.  This would allow the Panthers to either hold on to Peppers for one more season and pay him big money and take a hit in the salary cap. The other option is that they could develop a trade with another team.  

I am a big Peppers fan, but I personally believe that trading him away may be the best thing for both sides.

Some may say that even thinking of getting rid of Peppers is absurd.  To those who feel that way, hear me out.  

This year, the Panthers will not get a draft pick until late in the second round.  Also, by giving Peppers the kind of money it will take to keep him will hit the Panthers salary cap pretty hard considering Gross will also require big money.  By franchising Peppers and working out a trade, the Panthers can alleviate the two problems and Peppers gets the big contract he deserves.

Just last year, the Vikings traded one first round pick and two third round picks to the Chiefs for defensive end Jared Allen.  In a year when the Panthers don't have any early draft picks, they could work out a similar trade and pick up a few selections.

This would also give the Panthers the ability to spend money on a solid cornerback and to add some depth at the defensive tackle position where injuries hurt them late in the season.  

If Peppers does decide to leave, then this would be a big loss for the Panthers—at least the Panthers can benefit from it.