DL08
Quinton Coples
DE North Carolina
Grade
92.0
?
4.78 SEC
Top Performer
25 REPS
Top Performer
31.5 INCH
Top Performer
109.0 INCH
Top Performer
7.57 SEC
Top Performer
4.78 SEC
Top Performer
- 6'6" Height
- 33 1/4" Arm Length
- 284LBS. Weight
- 10 1/4" Hands
Overview
Coples has been on NFL scouting radars long before the 2012 draft. The poster child for ultra-athletic recruits brought to North Carolina by former head coach Butch Davis, Coples possesses a rare combination of size, speed, athletic ability, and a versatility that has allowed him to play numerous roles across the defensive line. Some have questioned his consistency, but Coples still has been able to produce at a high level, posting more than 17 sacks the past two years (heading into the team's 2011 bowl game). He has, at times, looked to play on cruise control, but it will be tough for many NFL front offices to ignore the natural ability that Coples possesses and the physical presence he brings to any defense. He can play defensive end in both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes, and should be selected in the early part of the first round.
Analysis
Strengths
Coples has a blend of speed and power on a massive frame that combine to make an uncommon prospect for the defensive line. Coples has the ability to trigger off the line of scrimmage and use strong hands and overall girth to rush the passer. While he doesn't have an array of pass-rush moves to beat NFL left tackles, his pure power allows him to be disruptive and productive at the position. Quinton plays the run very well for a tall, athletic pass rusher, and has been productive defending the run both inside and out. He is strong and has body control through double teams that allows him to stay up and continue to make plays towards the ball. His footwork is slightly above average for his size, but he overcomes this through a natural ability and understanding how to leverage the point to overcome a would-be blocker. This will make him attractive to teams who run a 3-4 scheme, where they can mesh Coples on the line to both rush the passer and be a stout run defender. He has undisputed first-round athletic ability for his size, which is the lifeline of his game.
Weaknesses
Coples' motor has been the single question mark throughout his collegiate career. While Coples is known to possess strength and quickness that should beat most offensive linemen in the ACC, at times he can disappear from the action. While he is a great interior player, Coples doesn't see much action outside the box and his lateral movement can be an Achilles heel for him when running down plays. There are also question marks surrounding his ability to use his hands, and his ability to ignite his feet and hips to make quick-twitch plays. He can seem as if he's moving in slow motion at times.
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| Grade |
Title |
Draft (Round) |
Description |
| 96-100 |
Future Hall of Famer |
Top Pick |
A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 |
Immediate Starter |
1st |
An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 |
Eventual Starter |
2nd-3rd |
A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 |
Draftable Player |
4th-7th |
A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 |
Free Agent |
UDFA |
A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |