Nine-time Pro Bowler and Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers underwent successful surgery on his right shoulder Thursday.
Even at 38, Peppers showed last season that he’s still got what it takes, racking up 33 total tackles, 11 sacks and 2 forced fumbles for the Panthers. The future Hall of Famer salted a number of games away with his play, including the Week 15 sack on his former Green Bay Packers teammate Aaron Rodgers. Peppers played in all 16 games in his comeback season, starting in five in the absence of Charles Johnson. Tying Mario Addison for the team lead in sacks in 2017, the now free agent has yet to indicate if he’ll be back with Carolina, let alone in the NFL, for a 17th season.
Photo: Julius Peppers Instagram (@juliuspeppers_)
Peppers quickly took to Instagram to provide an update on the procedure, with Panthers outside linebacker Thomas Davis quick to show his support to Peppers after the surgery. Davis, 34 himself, played a large role in bringing Peppers back home to Carolina, who drafted both players. After indicating that 2018 will be the final season in the NFL for “TD”, it would not be shocking if the duo were able to work out one final run together in Charlotte.
Not a stranger to NFL records, Peppers’ 154.5 career sacks currently rank only behind Bruce Smith (200), Reggie White (198) and Kevin Greene (160) all time, as well as being the only player in NFL history to achieve the following:
- Only player in NFL history to record at least 100 sacks and 10 interceptions
- Only player in NFL history with 100-plus sacks and four interceptions returned for touchdowns
- Only player in NFL history to record at least 150 sacks and 10 interceptions
Twitter: @KeepPounDENN