CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – Former Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers has been chosen for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Thursday night, the NFL announced from its season awards ceremony.
The three-time All-Pro selection at defensive end played 10 years in Carolina over two stints, including the final two years of his career. This was first year of eligibility for Peppers, who retired after the 2018 season.
Peppers retired as a nine-time Pro Bowler, ending his storied career with 159.5 sacks, which ranks fourth all-time. He currently stands as the only player ever with at least 150 sacks and 10 interceptions.
In addition, Peppers also racked up the second-most forced fumbles and the third-most tackles for loss in NFL history. Other notable accomplishments included winning Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2002 after being selected second overall in the NFL Draft.
Before suiting up for the Panthers, the Nash County native was a two-sport star for the Tar Heels, playing both football and basketball. He’s the only athlete to have played in both the NCAA Final Four (2000) and the Super Bowl (2004).
Also elected to the Hall were Dwight Freeney, Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Steve McMichael and Patrick Willis.
Peppers also played for the Packers and the Bears after his initial eight-year stint in Carolina.