Jaguars draft prospect - Quinton Coples

Quinton Coples (DE, North Carolina) is a big defensive end at 6'6" 284 lbs. He's currently projected to be drafted somewhere between the 5th and 10th picks of the draft, and he is a guy that many would say has "tremendous upside."

One of the criticisms that Coples has received is that he didn't play every down during his senior year. I'm not talking about him not being on the field, I'm talking about him being on the field, and not acting like it.

Still, it's worth pointing out that Coples is a nightmare when he's on the field and giving 100% of his effort. He has long arms, and he does a great job using them to distance himself from blockers as well as wrapping up the ball carrier. He's quick off the ball, and his bull-rush is nothing short of amazing.

The big concern in fitting Coples into the Jaguars' defense is that he's not the pass rusher the Jaguars have been looking for. He has the ability to be a solid rusher, but his real strength is in rush defense.

Coples, as it currently stands, may not be a great fit for the Jaguars. Jacksonville is looking for guys that can be great pass rushers and stop the run. Coples isn't there. That being said, he would fit in the Jaguars' system much better if the Jaguars can get Jeremy Mincey locked down and possibly make a play at Mario Williams. If either or both of those two things happen, Coples could combine value with need for the Jaguars at 7th overall in April.

Final thought: It always concerns me when I hear that a guy doesn't give 100% every down, but bringing in character guys has been one of the trademarks of the Gene Smith era. Smith has likely spent enough time with Coples and watching Coples on tape to determine if he's a good fit in Jacksonville, so I really have no reservations about whatever Gene Smith's decision winds up being.