Why Julius Peppers gave up ‘first love’ for Hall of Fame football career

Posted Feb 15, 2024
There was a time Julius Peppers favored dunks over sacks. But the Panthers legend had the self-awareness, even in his early 20s, to know a basketball career wasn’t worth stunting the potential of an extraordinary football journey. The former two-sport athlete at the University of the North Carolina chose wisely. "Basketball was my first love," Peppers said. (MSN.com)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Video: Bill Belichick Friday Football Training Camp Press Conference
North Carolina head football coach Bill Belichick speaks with the media on Friday morning as the Tar Heels continue preparations for their season-opening game against...
Fri Aug 14, 2026

Can we talk about the Mack Brown 2.0 era correctly?
Between the mediocre record that was celebrated in 2019, the chance to get into the playoff that was dropped because of a weird performance in...
Thu Aug 13, 2026

Peyton Seelmann Named To Butkus Award Watch List
UNC junior Peyton Seelmann has been named to the 2026 Butkus Award Watch List, presented to the nation's top collegiate linebacker. The Mechanicsville, Virginia, native...
Thu Aug 13, 2026

Tar Heels Kick Off NFL Preseason This Weekend
Every team with a Tar Heel in NFL training camps plays its preseason opener this weekend, with stars such as Drake Maye or Javonte Williams...
Thu Aug 13, 2026