Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
It has not been made official yet, but New York Jets defensive end/outside linebacker Quinton Coples is expected to play Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills. Coples missed the first two games after going down with a preseason ankle injury. Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that this player reads as probable on New York’s injury report.
There were great hopes when the former North Carolina standout became their first-round selection in 2012’s NFL Draft. Going up against a dual-threat in Bills rookie quarterback E.J. Manuel means pressure off the edge is even more important
Muhammad Wilkerson also had some uncertainty after being hurt against the New England Patriots. It seems that he will also likely play Sunday. Gang Green’s defensive front has been better than in years past by getting pressure against opposing passing attacks.
As a second-year pro, Coples looks to build off of 5.5 sacks registered during his rookie year. It is rather impressive that he would play just a month after getting surgery. A probable injury designation in the NFL means most times, barring a major setback, they will play.
For an early season matchup, there already is such importance on Sunday’s game. Dropping to 1-2 may not seem like a big deal, but for this team already fighting upstream, it would hurt. Expectations were already low and doubt could start to seep in. Divisional foes are somewhat looking vulnerable, so now is the time. Having Coples in any role is a big boost. Even though media reports suggest that snaps will be limited.
Nick Mamary is a New York Jets writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @NickMamary1, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
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