Quinton Coples 2012 NFL Draft prospect notes

Our work is never finished here at Mocking the Draft as we are already looking to 2012.  The summer will feature a lot of prospect evaluations that we will build upon during the season.

Quinton Coples
6'6, 280 pounds | Defensive line | North Carolina

First word: Coples is getting a ton of attention from draft analysts as many are pegging him as a potential top 10 selection.  There is no doubting Coples potential as he shows the ability to be a complete player.  The NFL puts a lot of weight in the ability to create pressure which is an ability Coples possesses. 

The first thing about Coples that stood out was his ability to control people with his hands.  He does a great job of exploding into the line and creating space for himself.  Coples routinely got inside hand placement and easily disengaged.  His strong leg drive helped him get a strong push into the backfield which is his main pass rushing technique.  Coples has an excellent short area burst that allows him to close on the football.

I don't see Coples as a speed rusher and he may end up being pegged as a 5 technique.  He has plenty of time to develop a better speed rush but based on his 2010 film he lacks great edge speed.  This doesn't mean he is not a good pass rusher as he is able to use his hands to disengage and counter.  He gets a real good push on the pocket and is able to slip past double teams. In the running game, Coples needs to work on holding the line better.  However, he is decent holding at the point and has the frame to add more bulk and strength.

Overall, Coples looks to be a good prospect but the 2011 season will be key to his draft position.  I have a few questions about what position he will fit and this year should help answer those questions.

Bold statement: Coples will be considered the top 5 technique option in the 2012 NFL Draft

Games viewed: Virginia Tech ('10), Tennessee ('10), Florida St. ('10), NC State ('10)

Quinton Coples
6'6, 245 pounds | Defensive line | North Carolina

Notes:

• Coples is a versatile lineman with the ability to play defensive tackle and end
• His hand usage is the strongest part of his game and what allows him to be successful
• He does a nice job getting his hands inside and arms extended allow him to keep defenders off his body
• His height and arm extension give him a good view of the backfield and the ability to locate the football
• Off the ball, Coples explodes into the defender delivering a nice jolt and creating space
• Coples is a stack and shed player not a shoot the gap or speed rusher
• He has a strong leg drive and good motor which helps with his pursuit to the football and pass rush
• Coples is able to disengage from the offensive but does so because of this hand usage and not suddenness
  
• Once he disengages, Coples has a great closing burst
• Coples has more bulk than his 6'6 245lbs numbers would imply
• He doesn't appear to be really explosive off the ball and lacks an elite 1st step
• Coples doesn't have a good speed rush
• He plays with a high pad level