Denver – The National Football League announced Tuesday that Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper has been removed from the Commissioner Exempt List and will be eligible to suit up for the team’s week‑7 game against the Arizona Cardinals on October 25.
Background of the exemption
Cooper was placed on the exempt list on August 30 following an arrest on domestic‑violence and criminal‑mischief allegations stemming from an argument with his girlfriend. The exempt list allowed him to remain on paid leave while the legal process unfolded.
Legal proceedings
According to court documents obtained by local news partners, Cooper pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor criminal‑mischief charge in June. The woman involved in the incident had her own charges dropped in July. Both parties were arrested in June on domestic‑violence accusations related to alleged cheating, and a protection order was issued prohibiting Cooper from contacting his girlfriend.
The arrest affidavit states that Cooper grabbed the woman’s arm, retrieved his phone, and at one point braced his neck against hers to prevent her from taking the phone. After his initial release on a $5,000 recognizance bond, Cooper allegedly sent the woman several text messages and visited her home, violating the court‑ordered protection order.
Upcoming trial
Cooper is scheduled to appear in court for a trial set for November 10‑13, with a break on November 11 for Veterans Day. He faces five charges in total, though the exact nature of each charge beyond the misdemeanor criminal‑mischief has not been disclosed.
Team response
Broncos officials confirmed that Cooper will be cleared to play once the league lifts the exemption. The team has not commented on the pending legal matters but emphasized that Cooper remains a valued member of the roster and will be expected to contribute on defense when he returns to the field.
What’s next for Denver
The Broncos will host the Arizona Cardinals on October 25 in what could be Cooper’s first appearance since the August arrest. Fans and local supporters will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds both on and off the field.
Stay tuned to local coverage for updates on the trial and any further league actions regarding Cooper’s eligibility.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
