Two former All-Pros are being shopped for trades before the start of free agency.
The Carolina Panthers are attempting to trade wide receiver Steve Smith, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport. The Chicago Bears are shopping defensive end Julius Peppers, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Trades are unlikely for either player because of age and salary.
Smith turns 35 years old in May and is due $4 million in 2014. It would cost the Panthers $2 million in cap room to trade the receiver. He had 64 catches for 745 yards with four touchdowns last season.
Peppers is due $13.9 million next season at 34 years old. The Bears would clear up more than $8 million in cap room by trading or cutting him. He had seven sacks in 2013 after collecting 11.5 in 2012.
If the Panthers and Bears can’t find trade partners, it’s possible either player could be released. The New England Patriots have needs at wide receiver and defensive end.
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