The popular thinking among fans is that the Panthers can always slap the franchise tag on defensive end Julius Peppers after the season if they aren't able to work out on a contract with him before then.

   And they certainly can... but they won't.

   Why? Because the price tag is ridiculous.

   Peppers' current salary cap figure this year is estimated at $14 million.

   According to the Collective Bargaining Agreement, a player designated as the franchise player can earn the average salary of the top five players at his position OR 20 percent more than his salary the previous season. In Peppers' case, the latter applies, which means his salary for the 2009 season would approach... better sit down for this one... an astronomical $17 million!

   So, $17 million for one guy? Don't think so.

   That's why it's so important for the Panthers to work out a contract with Peppers before next February.  And that is why talks are currently "ongoing," as Peppers said Thursday.

   Hey, the good news is that leaves the franchise tag open for Jordan Gross or Chris Gamble.

   --One other interesting thing Peppers said Thursday.

   When asked about taking on a leadership role with Mike Rucker gone, and idea that he seemed to resist last year, Peppers seemed opened to the idea.

   "Yeah, I am," Peppers said. "Mike has been here, his presence on the field and in the locker is going to be missed... I’ve been a part of this defense the longest so I feel a responsibility to try to lead guys in the right direction.”