Packers GM: Julius Peppers showing no signs of decline

Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson is firm in his belief that defensive end Julius Peppers' menacing presence off the edge remains firm within the 12-year professional's capabilities. 

Speaking at a pre-draft news conference, Thompson defended Peppers' newly-signed three-year, $30-million deal, while marveling in his consistency.  

"There’s no evidence of any decline in his play, in our opinion," Thompson said via Tyler Dunne of The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "He still has the same athletic traits that he had coming out. He’s had a remarkable history in the NFL in terms of durability. We’re looking forward to it. I think he is, too."

Averaging more than 10 sacks per season prior to his final year with the Bears, Peppers managed just 7.5 last season -  his lowest total since 2007. But while immediate optics would suggest he's on a downturn, Peppers' 2013 campaign, when looking at his entire career, is consistent with his typical ebb and flow of production.