Jets LB Quinton Coples could miss 3-4 weeks

According to a published report from Jane McManus of ESPNNewYork.com, the New York Jets could be without one of their most talented defensive players for the near future.

Linebacker Quinton Coples, New York’s 2012 1st-round pick, was reportedly injured during Saturday night’s preseason game with the Jaguars, and the early diagnosis is a hairline fracture in his ankle. The report quotes a “league source” in documenting a 3-4 week timeline for Coples’ return, but it was clear by watching the video that Coples was injured.

The 23-year-old is moving to outside linebacker from defensive end this season, and at 290 pounds, he would be one of the largest linebackers in the entire NFL. As a result, he has reportedly had a difficult transition period, but the former North Carolina Tar Heel also struggled as rookie. In 2012, Coples produced just 22 tackles and 5.5 sacks, and with his extreme talent level, that is certainly an underachievement.

If Coples were to miss 3-4 weeks, that puts his status for the season opener in a lot of peril. The Jets aren’t expected to compete for a playoff spot this season, but it could be a big campaign for Coples as he vies to be one of the building blocks of the future on defense in New York. More information will become available in the coming days, but for now, we can expect an extended absence for Coples.