Contracts, Carolina Panthers | featured news

The deadline for the Carolina Panthers to reach a long-term deal with franchise defensive end Julius Peppers has passed without an agreement.

The Carolina Panthers have hired Ron Meeks as their defensive coordinator, the team announced Monday. Meeks replaces Mike Trgovac, who left the Panthers last week to become the Green Bay Packers' defensive line coach.

Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Mike Trgovac has turned down a contract offer and won't return in the biggest shakeup yet to coach John Fox's staff.

Team spokesman said Charlie Dayton said Thursday that Trgovac informed Fox and general manager Marty Hurney of his decision at the Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, Ala.

Trgovac becoming the fourth assistant to leave since the end of the season.

After spending his entire life in North Carolina, Julius Peppers wants out.