NEW YORK -- The New York Jets haven't had an impact edge rusher since John Abraham was traded to the Atlanta Falcons six years ago.
Rex Ryan and Mike Pettine are banking on Quinton Coples being able to finally fill that void.
The pick doesn't come without risk, but the Jets seem to be in an Adam Dunn-esque swing-for-the-fences mode with everything they do these days. Gang Green will likely bookend Coples with Aaron Maybin, who was a surprise impact player in spurts last season.
When their turn came up at No. 16, the Jets had multiple pass-rushing choices, a list that included Melvin Ingram and Chandler Jones.
Instead, they went with Coples, a big-time talent who raised eyebrows after a senior season at North Carolina during which his effort and motivation were questioned.
Later in the night, we learned the Jets had their heart set on Coples from the start.
"(Rex) told me that if I were still there, he was definitely going to take me," Coples said during a conference call, according to The Associated Press. "I'm just thankful he was a man of his word."
Jets fans at Radio City Music Hall didn't seem enthused about the move, as Coples was met with a mix of boos and cheers.
At least Coples can rest easy knowing one teammate is all in.
