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Panthers resolve Peppers, Gross situations

By John Delong | Journal Reporter

Published: February 19, 2009

CHARLOTTE - Jordan Gross is signed, sealed, delivered.

Julius Peppers is yours for the right price if you're an NFL team in the market for a Pro Bowl defensive end.

That's the way the Carolina Panthers dealt with their two prized free agents yesterday on the final day for teams to designate their "franchise" players.

First, the Panthers signed Gross to a six-year contract that made him the highest-paid player on the team and the highest-paid offensive tackle in the NFL.

Then the Panthers gave Peppers their franchise tag, effectively retaining his rights as he starts to explore the free-agent market.

General Manager Marty Hurney was clearly pleased with the outcome. By signing Gross, the Panthers were able to retain a Pro Bowl left tackle and keep their offensive line intact. And by franchising Peppers, they essentially put themselves in position to receive significant compensation in the form of a trade.

"The fact that we have Jordan Gross under contract and Julius Peppers is franchised — to retain those players, I think you've helped yourself a lot," Hurney said from Indianapolis, where he is attending the NFL Draft combine.

Signing Gross was the key to it all. Had Gross not signed by 4 p.m. yesterday, the Panthers would have been forced to franchise either him or Peppers and allow the other to enter free agency without compensation.