Moving Out: Julius Peppers Tempted To Leave Carolina Panthers

Since 2001, only the Indianapolis Colts' Dwight Freeney has more sacks than Carolina Panthers standout defensive end Julius Peppers.

Peppers, a native of North Carolina, attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before being drafted second overall by the Panthers in the 2002 NFL Draft.

As the Panthers continue to remain inconsistent with playoff appearances, Peppers is opening to the option of joining a different team prior to the 2010 season. 

After being slapped with the franchise tag during the 2009 season, Peppers again began talks of free agency once the Panthers season ended and his 2010 Pro Bowl appearance was completed.

Peppers said that he was open to negotiate a long-term contract with the Panthers organization, but when there was no reply from the Panthers front office, Peppers decided to move forward in his decision to enter the free agent market.

Carolina has yet to offer Peppers a long-term contract or given him the franchise tender; therefore he is free to negotiate with other teams once free agency begins.

The Panthers have until Feb. 25, 2010 to place the franchise tag upon Peppers, making him the highest paid NFL player to date. 

Furthermore, with the controversy surrounding the upcoming "salary cap-free" 2010 season, negotiations between sides have come to a halt. Peppers most likely will not have a cat on the side of his helmet this season. Chances of him remaining in Carolina are slim, but still existent.

Other teams interested in Peppers are said to be Philadelphia, Chicago, New England, and Green Bay.