Peppers 

Defensive end Julius Peppers says he’s not sick or injured and has no excuses for his personal lack of production or his team’s disappointing 4-and-5 record.  Peppers is generally considered to be one of the NFL’s most feared defensive players, but has only one and-a-half sacks this season and has been criticized heavily by fans and media.  Peppers says he isn’t running away from the scrutiny and acknowledges his struggles, but says he’s not playing as poorly as people think. 

Meanwhile, wide receiver Steve Smith missed practice with a leg injury, defensive tackle Damione Lewis and safety Deke Cooper sat out with shoulder problems and running back DeShaun Foster missed the workout with an injured toe.  Cornerback Ken Lucas aggravated a hip injury he suffered in Sunday’s loss to Atlanta.  Safety C.J. Wilson has been signed to the active roster and running back DeCori Birmingham was added to the practice squad.