Charlotte, NC – The Carolina Panthers announced Tuesday that they will not place the franchise tag on defensive end Julius Peppers, which will allow him to become an unrestricted free agent. General manager Marty Hurney made the announcement, saying the decision was “very difficult.” “What we have to do is deal with 53, 60-some players in mind to try to be as competitive as you can each year,” Hurley said. “You never want to lose talented players, but you have to look at the big picture, and we have talented young players as well.” Peppers has spent all of his eight NFL seasons with the Panthers, including playing the 2009 season under the franchise tag. The 30-year-old recorded 10 1/2 sacks, two interceptions and a touchdown for Carolina last season. The North Carolina product, who was selected second overall in the 2002 draft, figures to be one of marquee free agents this coming offseason after totaling 381 tackles, 81 sacks, six interceptions and two touchdowns in his career for the Panthers.

Source: Sports Network