Following the latest investigation, a Jonathon Cooper release could come imminently after the LB was arrested on domestic violence charges. According to the news, the LB and his girlfriend were arrested due to a dispute over infidelity allegations, but the details become more chilling. His girlfriend, who claimed cheating, apparently admitted to officers that Cooper ate her phone and put it in his mouth. As of this posting, the Broncos don’t have any further comment until the investigation is over, but it’s likely he could face punishment before the 2026 season.
Originally selected in the seventh-round of the 2021 NFL Draft, the former Ohio State product was second leading with eight sacks last season. Paired with notable stars, Nik Bonitto and Alex Singleton, the star LB has been one of the league’s most powerful edge rushers. However, his job could be in jeopardy come this upcoming campaign, and it won’t look good if chilling details continue to be released.
Here’s what will happen: at least a nine game suspension could be pending once the dust settles. While it doesn’t look like that Cooper will face more time, he could serve probation. With that, the Broncos would probably need to explore the free agent market to replace him once he gets suspended.
Jonathon Cooper Release: Broncos Face Sudden $54M Crisis
There aren’t many linebackers available in free agency at their peak, including Bobby Wagner, Matt Milano and Kyle Van Noy. However, they could make a sneaky signing before campaign, targeting Bobby Okereke on a one-year deal. He isn’t going to make a huge impact like Cooper has for the past five years, but he’s better than the rest of the veterans that are free right now.
It doesn’t mean that Denver won’t entertain other options. Although they could be better off with Singleton and Bonitto to step up in a bigger role. 2024 Draft selection Jonah Elliss, who is the brother of Christian Elliss, may finally get his shot. With the Broncos eyeing a Super Bowl next year after coming close last year, expect the team to target an experienced veteran.
It could come down between Wagner and Okereke, who could be the final considerations for head coach Sean Payton. It’s hard to tell if they will sign another LB, but they should to alleviate the pressure off of Elliss.
What About Cooper?
While the details are disturbing, the Broncos can’t really afford to lose the LB. They will likely release him if he faces up to a year in jail. The investigation is still ongoing, so it’s nothing something to predict right now. Cooper might be fighting for his job once he returns, though, since he’s been in numerous headlines.
Meanwhile, nobody should anticipate a trade neither. He’s currently under contract through the 2028 season, and will be in his 30’s by the time he’s eligible for a new deal. It’s seasons from now, but it’s always a good time to talk about the future of that. He won’t get a massive extension when it comes time, but that’d be the only opportunity for him to explore the free agent market.
On the other hand, it would be hard to for anyone to be interested in him anymore. Unless he changes his ways and can own up his part, then there’s a chance to rebuild his image. The LB is still playing football at the peak of his career and hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. This is a storyline that will be continued to be followed throughout the rest of the offseason, and if a release happens come September, don’t be too shocked.
