Los Angeles Rams release veteran DL Quinton Coples

The Los Angeles Rams released veteran defensive lineman Quinton Coples, a former first-round pick of the New York Jets.

Coples, who played defensive end through his first four NFL seasons, was attempting to make the Rams' roster as a defensive tackle. The 26-year-old was released despite forcing two fumbles and notching one sack during the preseason.

Los Angeles coach Jeff Fisher said the decision to let Coples go was made partially to "give him an opportunity to get out there early to see if he could find work."

Fisher was pleased with Coples' effort and hopes he'll be picked up by another team.

"I really appreciated everything that he did," Fisher said. "Going from end to tackle, if you've never been in there, is quite a change. He worked really hard at it."

Coples was the 16th overall selection by the Jets in the 2012 draft. He posted 16.5 sacks over his first three seasons before struggling last season while splitting time with the Jets (10 games) and Miami Dolphins (six).

The Jets waived Coples in late November and the Dolphins claimed him. Miami released Coples in February and the Rams signed him to a two-year contract in mid-March.

Los Angeles also released the following players to get down to the 75-man roster limit: Quarterback Dylan Thompson, running back Zach Laskey, receivers Marquez North and David Richards, tight ends Jake Stoneburner and Benson Browne, center Brian Folkerts, offensive tackle Jordan Swindle, defensive tackle Zach Colvin, linebacker Darreon Herring, defensive back Michael Caputo, safety Jordan Lomax, kicker Taylor Bertolet and long snapper Jeff Overbaugh.

The Rams also announced that offensive tackle Rob Havenstein has been taken off the physically unable to perform list.