The Denver Broncos have placed outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper on the NFL's commissioner's exempt list, removing him from team activities while investigations into alleged domestic violence charges proceed. The designation means Cooper will not participate in games or team practices as the league examines potential violations of its personal conduct policy.
Cooper is scheduled to appear in Douglas County (CO) court on Monday for arraignment on multiple domestic violence charges. These include a felony charge of second-degree assault by strangulation and three misdemeanor charges, stemming from two incidents involving his girlfriend in June.
This commissioner's exempt list designation has several implications. Cooper will be paid and will not count against the Broncos' 53-man roster, a crucial detail with NFL teams needing to finalize their rosters by Sunday. He is permitted to work out at the team facility and attend meetings.
According to an affidavit included in the police investigation, a nurse noted that Cooper's girlfriend experienced a physical injury from being choked, which led to a substantial risk of death or traumatic brain injury. The Broncos had continued to play Cooper through the preseason despite the accusations, with coach Sean Payton stating the team was following league and club protocols and had set guidelines for Cooper, including therapy sessions.
Cooper, a 2021 seventh-round pick from Ohio State, has been with the Broncos for his entire career. He has started every game for the past three seasons, accumulating 266 tackles, 1 interception, 3 fumble recoveries, and 31.5 sacks. He could still face a league suspension depending on the outcome of the investigation and any legal proceedings.