Situational Role? Julius Peppers Is Here To 'Be Productive.'

There was a lot of nostalgia in the air for the Carolina's when the Panthers brought back local favorite defensive end and Panthers great Julius Peppers last Friday. At 37, it's believed that Peppers would like be in a situational pass rushing role with other guys, but on a call with local WFNZ (click this link to here the interview), Peppers pushed the envelope further.

"We haven't really talked about that," Peppers said about his role.  "I can say this: It's not one of those situations where I'm coming back for a farewell tour. I'm coming back to play, and I'm coming back to try to make some things happen. So my expectation is to be out there and be productive."

It's obvious Peppers doesn't want to be a guy plugged in here or there just to be there and despite what the Panthers may have thought they would get out of him, it's something they certainly should like to hear. 

Peppers is coming off a two-year stint with Green Bay where he recorded 18 sacks and 4 forced fumbles over that span. He had 7.5 sacks last season with the Packers, so the consistency is still there. While he lined up a lot in a 3-4 role, he was still very effective with his hand in the dirt, which is where he Carolina will use him most. 

He's also not ruling out playing another year at age 38. 

"Well, right now, I'm taking it one year at a time. At the end of the year if I still feel good, than why not?"

One year at a time, but I'm sure if Julius is productive in '17, then the Carolina's would love to have him back to end his career where it began... in Charlotte, NC.

Written By Tripp Morgan

Follow @TrippMorgan6 and Cat_Chronicles for the lastest news and updates surrounding the Carolina Panthers.