SPORTS

Broncos’ Jonathon Cooper to start season on commissioner’s exempt list, AP source says

PUBLISHED Aug 30, 2026, 3:58 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper was placed on the NFL’s Commissioner Exempt List Sunday, keeping him from practicing or playing as he faces charges stemming from two June arrests. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed the move to the Denver Gazette, saying Cooper may not practice or attend games while on the list. The designation came before Denver’s 53-man roster deadline, removing him from the active roster count. Cooper, 28, is scheduled for an arraignment Monday in Douglas County on charges of felony second-degree assault by strangulation, according to court records and local reporting. He was also charged with harassment and violating a protection order after his second arrest. Cooper has pleaded not guilty to the original misdemeanor charges. The NFL is reviewing the case under its Personal Conduct Policy. The exempt-list placement is administrative and does not establish guilt or constitute a final suspension. Cooper started Denver’s preseason game Friday.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

June 4, 2026 — Cooper was arrested following an alleged confrontation.
June 8, 2026 — Cooper pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges.
June 11, 2026 — Prosecutors added felony assault and misdemeanor charges.
June 12, 2026 — Cooper was arrested again over protection-order violations.
June 16, 2026 — Denver excused Cooper from mandatory minicamp activities.
July 24, 2026 — Judge scheduled Cooper’s arraignment for August 31.
July 29, 2026 — Cooper returned again to Broncos training camp.
August 28, 2026 — Cooper played Denver’s preseason finale against Minnesota.
August 30, 2026 — NFL placed Cooper on Commissioner Exempt List.
August 31, 2026 — Cooper’s arraignment is scheduled in Douglas County.
Over coming weeks, court proceedings may establish whether charges advance further.
Over coming months, NFL investigators may determine appropriate disciplinary action.
During 2026, Cooper could remain unavailable depending on legal developments.
After resolution, NFL discipline could affect Cooper’s remaining Denver career.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Broncos lose a key defensive player entering regular-season preparations.
Possible long-term US impact: NFL discipline could reshape Cooper’s career and Denver’s defensive planning.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize court records, NFL statements, and independently reported legal developments.
Most Affected: Cooper, Broncos, teammates, coaches, Denver fans, and NFL officials.