- May 21, 2026
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Jonathon Cooper. Photo: U.S. Space Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jordan Thompson via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Denver Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper has been removed from the commissioner exempt list, making him eligible to play in Week 7 against the Arizona Cardinals.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell lifted the restriction Friday. Cooper had been on the list since Aug. 30, barred from practicing or playing while the league reviewed his case.
Cooper was arrested twice in June on domestic violence charges, including a felony charge of second-degree assault by strangulation and three misdemeanors. His trial is scheduled for March 2-4, with a pretrial hearing set for Feb. 19.
The NFL stated its review "remains ongoing and is not affected by this change to Cooper's roster status." He could still face discipline under the personal conduct policy. His six weeks on the exempt list would count toward any future suspension, though he would have to repay game checks if suspended.
Denver receives a one-week roster exemption. Cooper can practice immediately and be added to the 53-man roster before the Oct. 25 game. He had been permitted to attend meetings and conditioning work while on the list.
Coach Sean Payton has deferred to the league and legal process, noting the team required therapy for Cooper.
The Broncos are 4-2 following Thursday's win over Seattle.
Mickey's Angle: Denver's defense gets a potential boost, but Cooper's availability week-to-week remains uncertain with legal proceedings and possible league discipline still hanging overhead.
Source: ESPN (also reported by ProFootballTalk, CBS Sports) - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.