The agent for Carolina Panthers Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers expects the franchise to let Peppers test the free agent market in 2010, Darin Gantt of The Herald reports.
"Surely we thought they’d want to talk," Pepper's agent, Carl Carey, told Gantt. "When we did not hear from them, I initiated communication with the Panthers. I was told, we’d talk next week, but they never did call me back.
"I can confirm that there has not been a single inquiry from the Carolina Panthers regarding Julius and his potential to be part of the team for next season and beyond."
Franchising Peppers in 2010 would cost the Panthers $20.019 million dollars, as well as a $1.5 million dollar Pro Bowl bonus. Considering the long-term deal signed by Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware in October, $20 million dollars guaranteed would be a signing bonus on a long-term deal for Peppers.
Last summer, the two sides had hoped to reach a long-term deal, but it now appears as though Peppers will test the free agent market.
"Right now, Julius is open to talking to all 31 teams in the NFL," Carey added. "I can say a myriad of factors will lead him to pick his next destination. Salary will be one of the many, but not necessarily the only one."
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