Report: Julius Peppers To Visit Chicago Bears, Deal May Be Done Friday

The NFL free agency period has officially begun, which hasn't stopped the rumors around the league involving the top free agents.

First and foremost, we have to start at the best free agent available, Julius Peppers.

The Pro-Bowl defensive end will test the market, looking for a new team for the first time.

Who will contend in the Peppers-sweepstakes? Despite a no salary cap season, rules have been set in place for the final eight playoff teams, which may make this free agent period very quiet.

However, according to ESPN's Insider Adam Schefter, the Chicago Bears are hot on their trail.

The Bears and Peppers have reportedly set up a meeting for Friday, a positive for the organization.

Weakened in this years draft due to the Jay Cutler trade, free agency will be a crucial part of the Bears success next season.

With pressure facing management of the Bears, there is no doubt the Bears are going for the kill, hoping to complete a deal with the Pro Bowl defensive end today.

A fast start to free agency was not expected, but just like last year with Albert Haynesworth, maybe Julius Peppers will break open the bank come the first day of free agency.

Matt Miselis is an NFL writer for BleacherReport.com