Vic Carucci of NFL.com fame reports that the Pats are working on a deal to bring Julius Pepper to New England in exchange for the 34th overall selection in the 2009 NFL Draft acquired from the Chiefs for QB Matt Cassel and LB Mike Vrabel. Peppers was previously franchised by the Panthers and is assured of making at least $16.68 million for the coming season.

Well this would certainly make that trade, which initially seemed to be a considerably shitty offer, look a whole lot better. Peppers, of course, is a defensive end in Carolina's 4-3 alignment, but the general consensus is that he would bump back to OLB in New England's predominantly 3-4 scheme, solidifying one of the most prolific sets of outside 'backers of this or any other generation along with Adalius Thomas. One would think that the Panthers would be able to get much more for Peppers, but given the fact they're just a little over $2.4 million under the cap according to Rotoworld.com, it wouldn't be surprising to see them pounce (I know, I know, weak-ass pun) at the opportunity to go younger and cheaper at the position. The Pats have already had a fantastic offseason with the additions of Galloway, Springs, Bodden and others, and this would only further their case as the greatest front office in the game. I feel warm all over just thinking about it.