When Quinton Coples visited with the New York Jets prior to the 2012 NFL Draft, coach Rex Ryan promised the North Carolina defensive end that he would be the team’s selection if he was still available with the 16th pick. Ryan and the Jets kept that promise Thursday and Coples said " I am just thankful he is a man of his word."
Coples had a rough senior season and some analysts questioned his work ethic leading up to the draft. ESPN’s Todd McShay called the selection of Coples a “curious pick” because 3-4 defensive ends are generally not premier pass rushers.
Coples, for his part, tried to brush aside any criticism of his past play.
“I’ve been working hard, to be the best I can be and be the best Jet I can. What happened last year is what happened last year. I’m looking forward to being one of the best pass rushers,” Coples said. “I think I’m going to do great for the Jets.”
Ryan and Co. certainly are banking on it.
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