Pass Rush:

A prototypical pass-rusher who can line up anywhere on the the defensive line and win. Solid get off and possesses nice flexibility for a man his size. Has a powerful bull rush and can skate lineman back into the pocket. Has a nice inside move that he likes to utilize as he shows off his strength with great rip and swim moves. Generally plays with a good pad level but can get upright at times. Lacks the pure speed to be a consistent threat on speed-rushes but is successful due to his hand usage and strength.

Grade: 4.0

Strength:

Very strong in the upper and lower body. Anchors well and is hard to move. Has a strong bull rush and keeps his feet pumping allowing him to toy with weaker lineman. Consistently uses his strong hands to disengage and keep himself free. Can toss lineman to the ground when playing the run.

Grade: 5.0

Quickness:

Not a speed freak but a smooth athlete. Looks so crisp through all his pass-rush moves. Has a solid burst and if he lines up inside can beat guards with his quickness. Looks good in space and even said he’s not shy about playing linebacker in a 3-4 defense.

Grade: 3.5

Point of Attack:

Strong at the point of attack. Can anchor well and is tough to move. Stands up to double teams well and fights to get through them. Stacks and sheds nicely as he displays his strength and hand usage by muscling lineman out of the way. Gets good penetration when playing inside as he can overwhelm guards with his strength and quickness. Will get upright at times and be effectively blocked. Doesn’t always give 100% effort in pursuit and doesn’t make as many plays as he should. Will be a little slow to react and find the football at times.

Grade: 4.0

Tackling:

Good tackler who delivers a pop on his hits. His athleticism helps him make tackles in space. Has a long reach and can get backs in his grasp. Wraps up well and doesn’t miss often.

Grade: 4.0

Intangibles:

A 2 year starter who blew up when he was asked to move inside to defensive tackle for the 2010 season. Very versatile. Can play end in the 4-3 and 3-4 as well as inside at tackle in the 4-3. Has a lot of question marks surrounding his motor and desire. Didn’t always go 100% in his senior year and some have speculated he was playing not to get hurt. Was investigated by the NCAA for attending a draft party but was cleared of any wrong-doing. Never had any major injury history. Will need to stay motivated in the NFL.

Grade: 2.0

Outlook:

Coples is a great prospect. He might actually the most talented defensive player in this draft class. He has a huge ceiling, a Julius Peppers-lite isn’t out of the question. However, he also has a low floor if he’s not motivated. If he didn’t go 100% at UNC because he didn’t want to get hurt, I can understand that (many don’t though), because he’s not getting paid (easy now) and if he gets hurt he could lose a lot of money. Then again, if he did this in college, what’s going to stop him from mailing it in once he signs that big 1st round contract? That’s why I think it’s important he goes to a team with a solid locker-room and coaches that will keep him motivated to make sure he doesn’t slack off. He has all the talent in the world, he just has to use it.