Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers, fourth on the NFL's career sacks list, on Friday announced his retirement after 17 seasons.
Peppers, 39, is projected by many to be a first-ballot Hall of Fame selection when he becomes eligible for enshrinement in Canton, Ohio, in five years. His total of 159.5 career sacks trails only Kevin Greene (160), Reggie White (198) and Bruce Smith (200).