TL;DR
The Denver Broncos have excused linebacker Jonathon Cooper from their minicamp after he was arrested twice within a week on domestic violence charges, including one felony. The team is reviewing the situation as legal proceedings continue.
The Denver Broncos have excused outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper from their mandatory minicamp this week after he was arrested twice in a seven-day span on multiple domestic violence charges, including one felony.
Cooper, 28, was first arrested on June 4 in Parker, Colorado, following an argument with his girlfriend. He faced multiple charges from that arrest, with one upgraded to felony second-degree assault on June 7. He was arrested again on June 8 on charges that included harassment. The Broncos announced Cooper’s excusal on Tuesday, citing the team’s high standards and ongoing process of gathering information.
Cooper appeared in Douglas County Court on June 9, was released on a personal recognizance bond, and is subject to a strict ‘no contact’ order. His upcoming court dates include motions hearings scheduled for July 6 and July 14, with a jury trial set for July 22. The team has not yet indicated whether Cooper will face disciplinary action or suspension pending the legal process.
Implications for Cooper’s NFL Future
This development raises questions about Cooper’s status with the Broncos and potential league discipline. The NFL is monitoring the case, and Cooper could face a suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. The team’s decision to excuse him reflects the seriousness of the charges and the organization’s high standards for player conduct.
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Recent Legal Issues and Team Response
Cooper was actively practicing during the team’s OTAs before his arrests. The incidents mark a significant legal setback amid his ongoing NFL career. The Broncos’ statement emphasizes their commitment to responsible conduct and the importance of due process, as the legal proceedings unfold.
“He’s taking this time, obviously, he’s got to work on himself. The club is very much in tuned to the league office, local authorities here, and we’ve had several meetings. Clearly from an ownership standpoint, head coach, organizationally, there’s a bar that we have, and an expectation that we have, that’s very high. We’ll consider all of that as we continue to gather the information … we’re continuing to go through that process, and we take it very seriously.”
— Broncos coach Sean Payton
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Unclear Impact on Cooper’s NFL Status
It is not yet clear whether Cooper will face league suspension or disciplinary action beyond the team’s immediate response. The NFL is monitoring the case, and decisions are pending the outcome of court proceedings and further investigations.
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Next Legal Proceedings and Team Decisions
Cooper has court dates scheduled for July 6, July 14, and a jury trial beginning July 22. The Broncos will continue to assess the situation and determine whether to reinstate Cooper to team activities or impose disciplinary measures once legal outcomes are clear.
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Key Questions
Will Cooper face NFL suspension?
The NFL is monitoring the case, and Cooper could face suspension if found to have violated the league’s personal conduct policy. No final decision has been announced yet.
What charges does Cooper face?
He was arrested on charges including domestic violence, with one charge upgraded to felony second-degree assault, and harassment. His girlfriend’s charge was dropped.
Has Cooper been officially suspended or disciplined by the Broncos?
No, the Broncos have only excused him from minicamp while they gather more information. No disciplinary action has been publicly announced yet.
What is the team’s stance on the situation?
The Broncos emphasize their commitment to high standards of conduct and are closely monitoring the legal process before making further decisions.
When will Cooper’s legal case be resolved?
He has court dates scheduled for July 6 and July 14, with a jury trial beginning July 22. The outcome of these proceedings will influence the team’s next steps.
Source: ESPN
