Denver Broncos linebacker legal case

In late July 2026 the Denver Broncos’ outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper was arrested twice on felony assault and domestic‑violence charges. The first report noted that the charges had been upgraded after a second arrest for violating a protection order, that Cooper had completed a month‑long inpatient counseling program, and that he would miss the start of training camp while the NFL considered disciplinary action under its Personal Conduct Policy.

A few days later the Broncos confirmed Cooper had rejoined the team’s summer workouts despite the pending case. Coach Sean Payton said the organization was following league and club protocols while remaining supportive. Cooper’s next court appearance was set for August 31, and the league continued to review the matter with a possible six‑game suspension still looming.

Overall, the situation progressed from a legal and disciplinary uncertainty that kept Cooper out of mandatory minicamp to his return to training camp while the case and potential NFL sanctions remained unresolved.