Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers undergoes surgery, says he’s ‘recovering well’

Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers had surgery on his right shoulder on Thursday.

He first posted photos post-operation on his Instagram story on Thursday afternoon, with the caption “thanks everyone for the calls, texts and visits. Everything went smooth and I’m recovering well.”

Peppers also posted a photo of one of his guests, Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis.

Carolina’s team website confirmed the surgery Thursday afternoon, but a team spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.

A source told the Observer that Peppers’ surgery was a labrum repair.

Peppers, 37, returned to Charlotte in 2017 on a one-year deal and tied for the team lead in sacks with 11. Carolina coaches have stated their hope that Peppers, a future first-ballot hall of famer, will return for another year.

At the end of the season, Peppers said that he needed to take some time to reflect before making a decision.

Peppers was added to Carolina’s injury report the day before the Panthers played New England in Week 4. He played that game with a large brace on his shoulder, and was listed as questionable the following week. He didn’t miss any games in 2017.

He also practiced on a limited basis throughout the year, as the team gave him rest days to preserve his body.

This story was originally published February 8, 2018 at 4:58 PM with the headline "Carolina Panthers DE Julius Peppers undergoes surgery, says he’s ‘recovering well’."