Broncos Linebacker Enters Not Guilty Plea in Domestic Violence Case
Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper has formally denied all five charges against him in a Colorado court, including felony strangulation and violating a protective order. A jury trial is set for November 10, with a pretrial hearing on October 30. Cooper remains on the NFL's Commissioner Exempt List, preventing him from practicing or playing while the legal process unfolds.
Cooper’s arraignment caps a case that escalated after his initial June arrest, when charges were later upgraded following a nurse’s report describing injuries consistent with strangulation and possible brain trauma. A second arrest came a week later for allegedly violating a protective order. He now faces five counts, including felony strangulation, and has denied each.
The Broncos have adjusted around his absence. Jonah Elliss, a 2024 third-round pick, is the likely starter, with Que Robinson also expected to see more snaps. Cooper remains paid and can attend meetings, but cannot practice or play while on the Commissioner Exempt List. His trial, set for November, falls during Denver’s bye week.
This case could affect public trust in the NFL’s handling of domestic violence allegations, as Cooper’s exempt-list status allows him to stay paid and involved while legal proceedings continue. Fans and advocacy groups may scrutinize the league’s consistency, while the Broncos’ on-field depth could be tested if a starter is sidelined long-term. The outcome may also influence how teams weigh character risks in future drafts.