Optimism for Jets after drafting impact players

NEW YORK — Rex Ryan wanted impact players out of the NFL draft, and the New York Jets coach thinks he got his wish.

So much so that Ryan already has declared — although later backing off — big defensive lineman Quinton Coples and speedy wide receiver Stephen Hill starters for a team determined to get back to the playoffs.

After a disappointing season and a winter of uncertainty, this was indeed an important draft for general manager Mike Tannenbaum, who was charged with the task of filling some key holes in the roster. There's still work to be done, of course, but there's no doubt the Jets improved their overall team speed on both sides of the ball and added some aggressive and physical players — just as Ryan likes 'em.