The New York Jets drafted Quinton Coples with the hope that he could help immediately solidify their defensive line. Unfortunately, through two games Coples has made little impact and doesn’t appear to be a significant part of their defensive game plan.
Coples played 32 of the Jets 63 defensive snaps in the season opener, recording just one quarterback hurry according to Pro Football Focus. On Sunday against the Steelers, Coples playing time was cut back to 16 snaps.
The Jets seem to be content to stick with their starters Mike DeVito and Muhammad Wilkerson, rather than use a deeper rotation. This leaves only a handful of snaps for backup defensive ends Coples and Marcus Dixon.
This strategy is somewhat surprising considering Coples status as a 1st-round pick and the fact that the rookie is just one injury away from being forced into significant action. The more playing time he gets early this season would seem to benefit the Jets in the long run.
Lets not overreact.
JPP didn’t get a chance to start his first year in NY until injuries gave him a chance at the very end of the season and he turned out ok.
Aldon Smith again didn’t in his first year and these are just off the top of my head. He has to get used to playing guys who are just as strong and fast as him. Rex Ryan will bring him along how he see’s fit.