The Carolina Panthers join every team across the NFL in nominating one member of their roster to be considered for the annual Walter Payton Man of the Year award. Given each year to a player who is recognized for both their on the field contributions and work in local communities, the competition is always extremely close. Julius Peppers has been selected this season to represent the Panthers.
Peppers, a captain and original Panthers member, returned back to Carolina prior to last season. Originally leaving eight seasons after being the team’s first-round (No. 2 overall) draft pick in 2002, Peppers spent time with both Green Bay and Chicago prior to his return.