Full Breakdown
Denver Broncos Linebacker Jonathon Cooper Pleads Not Guilty to Domestic Violence Charges
6/9/2026, 3:58:51 AM
Not Guilty Plea and Pending Trial
Denver Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper, 28, entered a not-guilty plea on Monday in Douglas County, Colorado, to a misdemeanor domestic-violence charge with a criminal-mischief enhancer. He and his girlfriend were arrested after police responded to a domestic incident on the night of June 4 in Parker, Colorado. Both were released on personal recognizance. A motions hearing is set for July 6, and a jury trial is scheduled for July 22, a week before the Broncos’ training camp opens.
Career Context
Cooper, a 2021 seventh-round pick, signed a four-year, $60 million extension in 2024 guaranteeing $33 million. He has started 65 of 81 games, tallying 31.5 sacks, 266 tackles and 16 QB hits, including 10.5 sacks in 2024 and eight in 2025.
Conflicting Accounts and Police Findings
Cooper’s affidavit says he grabbed his girlfriend’s upper arm and braced his neck against hers to retrieve his phone. His girlfriend alleges Cooper “grabbed her by the neck and held her against the wall for about a minute,” lifted her and threw her to the ground. Officers noted only a small neck mark, arm scratches and a minor cut, stating the injuries “did not appear consistent with a larger male lifting her by the throat.” Police noted “no probable cause … given the conflicting statements and lack of specific physical evidence.”
Official Statements
The Broncos released a brief statement: “We are aware of the matter and gathering more information.” The NFL confirmed it is in contact with Denver and will review the case under its Personal Conduct Policy. Cooper’s attorney, Harvey Steinberg, said the defense will not move to dismiss and seeks a trial “as early as possible” to avoid conflict with training-camp obligations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not let the sun go down on your anger,” — Jonathon Cooper, Instagram post (Ephesians 4:26)
- “I apologize to my family, to my friends and my community … and so many others.” — Jonathon Cooper, Instagram post
- “ The Broncos released a statement Friday morning that, "we are aware of the matter and gathering more information.” — Denver Broncos official statement
- “no probable cause … given the conflicting statements and lack of specific physical evidence,” — Parker Police affidavit
Implications for Broncos and NFL
If Cooper misses training camp or the early season, Denver loses a key pass-rusher, potentially weakening its defensive scheme. The NFL’s personal-conduct review could impose discipline independent of the criminal case, adding uncertainty to roster planning.
What’s Next
A motions hearing on July 6 will address pre-trial matters, followed by the jury trial on July 22. The league’s investigation proceeds concurrently, and any disciplinary action will be announced after the criminal case concludes or earlier at the NFL’s discretion.
