Peppers to Pats, Not So Fast.

By Jim Ingram
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Adam Schefter, NFL Network Insider, made quite the bold statement during his semi-regular appearance on WEEI's Dennis & Callahan show this morning. Schefter stated that Julius Pepper's would not be in a Patriots uniform this coming season. John Dennis asked him how sure he was, Schefter quickly replied, "I am 99.9% sure that Julius Peppers will not be a Patriot during the 2009 season".

He cited several reasons why the trade won't happen. He indicated that it would take more than the $73 million deal that Jared Allen received from the Vikings last off season, with $30+ million of that guaranteed. When was the last time the Pats doled out that kind of money? He also questioned what that type of money would do to the salary structure of impending free agents in the locker room. Richard Seymour, Vince Wilfork and Logan Mankins are all unrestricted free agents after the 2009 season. All three will be looking for big paydays and the Pats most likely will not have the room for all three.

Personally, I would love to see the Pats bring in a play maker like Peppers. He's one of the best pass rushers in the game and would inject life into a defense that desperately needs it. Bill Belichick would be given the option of moving him to outside linebacker this season and see how the transition works out. If Peppers struggles, you can let Richard Seymour walk, and move him back to defensive end. Richard Seymour has been either hurt or unproductive for the past two season and would be my pick as the odd man out. Seymour still does many things well, but isn't going to be worth the money he'll be seeking. The Patriots try their best to stick to the philosophy of paying a player what he's worth now, not what he's done in the past.

As for the money, I don't see a reason why you can't fit Peppers, Vince Wilfork and Logan Mankins under the salary cap. Wilfork is the centerpiece to the Patriots 3-4 defense and shouldn't be in the Albert Haynesworth price range. Don't forget the NFL has the potential of an uncapped season on the horizon. If that occurs, and Peppers makes a successful transition to outside backer, spend the money and keep all four players.

Regardless of what happens, the New England Patriots continue to make this an eventful off season. Make sure to check back for the latest news and our unique opinions on everything Sports.