Despite turmoil, Peppers voted Panthers captain
CHARLOTTE (AP) — His Carolina Panthers teammates insisted defensive end Julius Peppers' offseason efforts to leave town hadn't affected his standing. On Wednesday they proved it at the ballot box, voting him a defensive team captain.
Peppers had a career-high 14½ sacks last season in the final year of his contract. He soon pleaded with the Panthers to let him leave in free agency. He said he had "maxed out" in Carolina and wanted to play outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense.
The Panthers still placed the franchise tag on him, which included a one-year deal for an NFL-high $16.7 million. After skipping all offseason workouts, Peppers finally signed the tender.
He showed up to training camp on time and hasn't missed a practice.
"I think his teammates know him a lot better than maybe the media does," coach John Fox said.
Quarterback Jake Delhomme and tackle Jordan Gross were voted offensive captains. Kicker John Kasay got the nod for special teams.
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