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The Chicago Bears thought he had nothing left in the tank, and no other team was willing to take an immediate chance on him. At 34 years old, it appeared Julius Peppers needed to start thinking about life after football, instead of gearing up for a potential Super Bowl run.
Green Bay Packers stellar general manager Ted Thompson has made a career out of making quality draft picks and turning them into above-average playmakers. However, he also has been known to dip into free agency from time-to-time. Even though it is not often, he always makes sure to make it count when he does. That is exactly what happened when the Packers signed Peppers last March.
In 2014, Peppers was the only player in the NFL to record a sack, interception, forced fumble and defensive touchdown. He also came within one of tying his career high in forced fumbles, which further proves he continues to play at his very best late in his career.
The 44 total tackles, seven sacks, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, 11 defended passes and two interceptions that resulted in two defensive touchdowns speak volumes. But, it was how Peppers conducted himself once he joined the Packers that really stood out among the players. He is the silent type, but he also knows exactly what to say to motivate his teammates when it matters most. For that reason, it came as no surprise he was named a defensive captain.
As a member of the Bears in 2013, Peppers did not earn a spot in the NFL Top 100. While with the Packers in 2014, he received a ranking of No. 71. Despite Green Bay knowing long ago they made the correct decision to ink him to a three-year deal, the ranking on NFL Top 100 solidified it.
Peppers gives the Packers defense another ferocious weapon, which is why it should not come as a surprise if Green Bay is contending for a Super Bowl berth in 2015.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
