50 best players in the AFC East
By Brian Miller
Quinton Coples
Nov 24, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Jets outside linebacker Quinton Coples (98) against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
This 6’6″ Kinston, Nc native was selected by the New York Jets with the 16th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Coples has been a key part of the Jets linebacker corp since his arrival and has recorded 105 tackles, two forced fumbles, and 16.5 sacks in his three professional seasons. Coples was also a two time first team All-ACC linebacker (2010 and 2011) at North Carolina.
In 2012, Coples produced 30 tackles and 5 sacks during his rookie season. In 2013 he missed two games with a hairline ankle fracture and transitioned to outside linebacker where he recorded another 38 tackles and 4.5 sacks. In 2014 Coples registered a combined 35 tackles and 6.5 sacks. While he is far from elite, Coples is a steady contributor on the outside and young player still learning the position. He is a vital part of the Jets defensive linebacker group.