CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Julius Peppers no longer wants a long-term contract with Carolina, saying the Panthers have ignored him this offseason.

In an interview aired Tuesday morning on Charlotte radio station WFNZ-AM, the five-time Pro Bowl defensive end indicated he's irritated by the team's "silence."

Peppers says the Panthers have not had any serious discussions with his agent, Carl Carey. He says that has changed his position as he heads into free agency. Peppers had been open to a long-term deal before the start of last season, but now says that's no longer his best option.

The Panthers have declined to comment on their plans for Peppers, the franchise's career sacks leader. Carolina paid him an NFL-high $18.2 million last season under the franchise tag.