"I don’t care how big you are, I don’t know how strong you are, it might not be perfect technique of a defensive end, or the pure power of a 290-pound defensive end, my job is to get the job done. That’s what I get paid to do and what I’ll find a way to do."

Originally signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted rookie free agent out of Pennsylvania in 2013, Copeland joined the Tennessee Titans practice squad in 2013 and 2014. His impressive performance at the 2015 NFL Veteran Combine earned him a one-year contract with the Lions as he rejoined the club in 2016, providing versatility as a linebacker and special teams contributor.

Since then, he’s stuck, serving as a human Swiss Army knife for the Lions. He’s been listed as both a linebacker and defensive end, splitting his practice time between the positions. He’s also been one of the team’s most important special team’s performers, playing a team-high 305 snaps with the groups last year.