Quinton Coples: Time to step up is now

By Luis Tirado Jr. | May 13, 2015

Once you start to hear your team is drafting potential replacements for what you bring to the table, the time to worry and step up arrives. Gone are the excuses of “rookie mistakes” or the learning curve of transitioning into the NFL. In the case of linebacker Quinton Coples, his time is now if he ever wants to silence his critics of not giving it his all on every play he’s a part of.

Sometimes showing signs of brilliance, Coples looks like he can indeed be the real deal. Last season for the New York Jets, he contributed 25 tackles, 6.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Often times however, he didn’t bring the aggression or tenacity that is expected of someone with his pass-rushing abilities in every opportunity he’s able to contribute.

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The Jets are currently in a rebuilding mode this offseason with their sights set on having quite the turnaround season in 2015. They went on a spending spree in free agency and combined with their 2015 NFL Draft class, they are in a great position to rebound nicely come next season.

Problem is, Coples will absolutely need to step up and prove his worth. With new pass rushers coming into the mix like Leonard Williams and Lorenzo Mauldin, his playing time could be in jeopardy if he slips into his old habits.

Included in this rebuilding phase is a new regime in place with head coach Todd Bowles and general manager Mike Maccagnan. Considering that they have no loyalty to anyone as every athlete is on a clean slate, Coples will need to shine in training camps and especially when the games actually start to matter. Otherwise, there will be no hesitation to give his reps to someone who is more reliable in getting the job done consistently.

Overall, Coples has been quoted in an article written by Kimberely A. Martin of Newsday that he’s not worried about losing playing time. Regardless, his starting time could be up for grabs if he doesn’t play to his potential, no matter what his initial thoughts are now.

Next: Coffee with the New York Jets: 5/13 edition

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