Chicago Bears Countdown to Kickoff: 90 Days with Julius Peppers
By Peter Jurich
Julius Peppers' Retirement and Legacy
Following his retirement in 2019, Peppers' 159.5 career sacks put him at fourth all-time in NFL history, with his 175 tackles for loss good enough for third-best since 1999. In just four seasons with the Bears, Peppers' 37.5 sacks in Chicago is ninth highest in franchise history. Perhaps more impressive than his stats in Chicago is the fact that Peppers started in all 64 regular season games while under contract with the Bears.
Based on the time of his retirement, Peppers will be eligible for induction into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2024, where he should be on a shortlist of worthy, first-ballot players, joining the likes of Antonio Gates, Eric Berry, Jamaal Charles, and even former Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall. Peppers is also remembered as one of the few players who have played in both March Madness and Super Bowl, with former Bears tight ends Martellus Bennett and Jimmy Graham also qualifying.
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Today, Peppers remains with his hometown Panthers, serving as a special assistant of business operations. Alongside his work with the team, Peppers is an active member of his community and is focusing on spending time with his family.