The Carolina Panthers drafted Julius Peppers second overall during the 2002 NFL Draft. He enjoyed several productive seasons for the Panthers, becoming the all-time leader in sacks, before eventually leaving due to failed contract negotiations.
Peppers left Carolina for Chicago and Green Bay over seven seasons before returning to his native North Carolina last year. As primairly a third-down rush option in defensive coordinator Steve Wilks unit, Peppers thrived eventually having to shoulder more responsibility as the season progressed and finished with 11 sacks – at 37 years old.
Though $6 million initially separated the two, his homecoming was well received and now Panthers fans want at least one more season from the future Hall of Fame inductee.