The Peppers Gamble

The unremarkable chapter of Julius Peppers career comes to an end in Carolina. He came in with huge expectations. Probably the most athletically gifted player on the team his entire career. He failed to truly deliver on those gifts. He was to the defensive line, what Michael Vick was to quarterbacking. He was faster than most running backs. He was larger than any skilled player, but as big and powerful as the linemen. He has been blessed with good health for the majority of his professional career, yet has faded away in many games as if he were injured
It’s a shame that Chicago paid him so much to join their team. Mediocrity shouldn’t be rewarded anything, and definitely not millions of dollars a year.
I get the risky move by Chicago. Teams have made similar moves in the past in hopes of improving their teams. According to what’s on paper, Peppers looks like a safe bet. Not unlike the same move the Panthers made when they drafted him with a reputation for disappearing in big games. The fans will be woefully disappointed. It comes down to heart. He lacks the ferociousness needed to be a great defensive player. Especially on the defensive line where it’s more about tenacity than anything else. He doesn’t come across as a mental giant, just a gentle one. So it won’t be his strategy and mental agility that will give him the edge. He has only one thing to rely on, and that’s his athletic gifts. So if the right coach, can find the model of motivation to ignite the passion in this million-dollar baby, then the bet will pay off. My bet is that he will rise and fall, just like he has done before. I do wish him the best of luck.