Julius Peppers
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
295 lb (134 kg)
Born:
January 18, 1980
Wilson, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Defensive End
Linebacker
College:
North Carolina (1998–2001)
Julius Peppers was one of the most dominant and athletically gifted defensive ends in NFL history, known for his rare blend of size, speed, and longevity. Over a 17-season career (2002–2018) with the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, and Green Bay Packers, Peppers became a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. Selected second overall in the 2002 NFL Draft, he quickly established himself as a defensive force, winning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and earning nine Pro Bowl selections.
Peppers recorded 159.5 career sacks, ranking fourth all-time at his retirement, and added six interceptions and 52 forced fumbles — an incredible feat for a defensive lineman. His combination of power, technique, and intelligence made him effective well into his late 30s. A consistent leader on and off the field, he was the cornerstone of multiple elite defenses. Julius Peppers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, honoring his remarkable career and lasting impact.
Peppers's Awards and Honors
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2002)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006, 2010)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2012)
- 9× Pro Bowl (2004–2006, 2008–2012, 2015)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
NFL Records
- 4th all-time in career sacks (159.5)
- Only player with 150+ sacks and 10+ interceptions
- One of the most durable and versatile defenders in NFL history
NFL Teams
Carolina Panthers (2002–2009,2017–2018)
Chicago Bears (2010–2013)
Green Bay Packers (2014–2016)
NFL Draft:
2002: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Carolina Panthers
Number Worn:
90, 56
NFL Stats
Seasons:
17 (2002–2018)
Games Played:
266
Game Started:
240
Total tackles:
719
Sacks:
159.5
Forced fumbles:
52
Pass deflections:
82
Interceptions:
11
Defensive touchdowns:
6