With the announcement today that Julius Peppers has been named NFC DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE MONTH for November, I think it may be safe to say that the free-agency acquisition of J.Pep is the smartest thing Jerry Angelo has ever done.
Why is that? What about Jay Cutler? While Jay was, indeed, NFC Offensive Player of the Week, that's not as impressive as a month. Or the career Peppers has had, for that matter.
#90 had a very impressive November that included the following:
18 Combined Tackles
4 Sacks
1 Pass Defense
1 Forced Fumble
Oh, and also, HE SACKED MICHAEL VICK OUT OF HIS SHOE.
That's just the things they keep track of. Nevermind how he's re-inspired the defensive line, and makes everyone else around him better. Nevermind the fact that he draws holds more often than Lindsey Lohan goes to rehabs. He's the catalyst for a resurgent defense, increasing the play of those around him. I've said it before--he's a big scary man, who does big scary things.
For that, Mr. Peppers, we salute you, and we're happy as hell to have you in Chicago. Keep up the good work!
And why is that Jerry Angelo's smartest move?
Well, simple. I said it before, but I'll say it down here too. He's making everyone around him better. And not just the defensive line. His abilities are allowing the linebackers to spread out, and the safeties to roam ready to make the hits underneath. The back 4 are allowed to keep the play in front of them, and as we all know at this point--that's a key to this defense.
But it's smart in that it not only makes the team better, which is his job, it may actually save him that job. And that of his head coach. And the staff around them. So kudos to you as well, Jerry. We'll give you some credit on this one.