Coples had 5 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. The reason I bring that up is that since Pete was heavily criticized for choosing Irvin over Coples, it probably warrants keeping an eye on both. I've always believed in Pete as a talent evaluator and warmed up quite a bit on his rationale in choosing Irvin. But he stuck his neck out a bit with that pick and his credibility will get dinged if Coples hits his upside and Irvin doesn't pan out. At least the bright side is that it's only one game (or one half of one game) and it sounds like Irvin's been blowing it up in camp so far. More important than how he stacks up with Coples, if Irvin can have a rookie season similar to Aldon Smith's, then the improved pass rush can put the Hawks' D in the top 5 and could give them the edge on the Niners in the division.

IMO I believe Pete was holding back Irvin as far as pass rush, because he knows it’s there. I think Pete was merely seeing what Irvin could do vs the Run and he did a solid job on that as far as holding his own vs the blocker.

Coples doesn't fit the Leo position. We would have to change the entire defense if we drafted Coples unless he played Red's position. Still its too early to judge. MAYBE at the halfway point we could take a look and see. Irvin has a very high ceiling though and should continue to improve.