Julius Peppers is the Panthers' career sack leader, but his days in Carolina might be numbered. (AP)

Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers said Tuesday that he no longer wants a long-term deal with Carolina, saying he’s changed his stance on whether he wants to continue his career in Carolina.

“Last year, at the time, that was the option that I wanted most,” Peppers told Charlotte radio station WFNZ. “Now it’s not.”

While agent Carl Carey said last week he believes the Panthers aren’t interested in retaining the 6-foot-7, 283-pounder — who is Carolina’s career sacks leader — team officials haven’t announced their plans for Peppers, who is an impending free agent.

“How can you say you want to be somewhere when you’re not really sure if they want you there because they’re not even talking to you?” Peppers said, who added he’s become irritated with Carolina’s “silent treatment.”

Peppers, who turned 30 last month, has been one of the premier pass rushers since he entered the league in 2002, compiling 81 sacks, including 10 1/2 sacks or more in five of the last six seasons.

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