The Denver Broncos already have one of the most ferocious defenses in the NFL this season, and yet, that unit is about to receive a huge boost starting Week 7.
Prior to Week 1 of the season, Broncos pass rusher Jonathon Cooper was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list. This decision felt inevitable since Cooper was arrested in June for an alleged altercation with his then-girlfriend. He was arrested a second time in June for allegedly violating a protection order.
“In regard to Jonathon being placed on the commissioner’s exempt (list), it’s part of the process,” Broncos general manager George Paton said. “We continue to take this very seriously. We’re going to monitor all the legal developments and continue to support Jonathan. Jonathan has worked very hard to better himself, and it will be good to have him in the building, being in meetings and just being part of the team.”
Less than 24 hours after the Broncos improved to 4-2 with a win over the Seahawks, the NFL announced that Cooper has been removed from the commissioner exempt list.
“The NFL has reinstated Broncos OLB Jonathon Cooper from the commissioner exempt list,” NFL insider Tom Pelissero said. “Cooper missed Denver’s first six games as the league investigates potential personal conduct violation. But he’s now eligible to play starting next week.”
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Huge boost for the Broncos.
Outside of a Week 1 loss to the Chiefs, the Broncos have done a good job keeping opposing offenses in check. Even when they gave up 26 points to the Rams in Week 3, they forced Matthew Stafford into two costly turnovers.
Now, the Broncos are adding a pass rusher to their roster who had 50 tackles and eight sacks during the 2025 season.
Cooper will be eligible to play next Sunday against the Arizons Cardinals.
