Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers spoke to reporters for the first time since last season Thursday.  Peppers told reporters at the team’s training camp in Spartanburg that it’s no secret his 2007 season was a disappointment.  The three-time Pro Bowl selection had a career-low two-and-a-half sacks in 2007, but he says he’s ready to return to form this season.  Peppers also says he’s excited to move to right defensive end, which is where he played at UNC. 

He played mostly left defensive end during the first six years of his Panthers career.  Left tackle Jordan Gross, who is battling Peppers during camp, says the former second overall pick has been impressive in practice and predicts he could have a career year.