Story perspectives

Broncos' Jonathon Cooper Returns After Arrests, Faces Possible Suspension

7/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jonathon Cooper returned to Broncos practice on Wednesday after missing minicamp due to two arrests.
Cooper faces a second-degree felony assault charge by strangulation, three misdemeanors, and an August 31 arraignment in Colorado.
The Broncos required Cooper to complete counseling and met with head coach Sean Payton, GM George Paton, and owner Greg Penner.
Payton said Cooper’s situation will not be a distraction, though the player could receive a six-game NFL suspension.

History

Historical Context

In 2007 Commissioner Roger Goodell introduced the NFL’s first formal Personal Conduct Policy, allowing up to a six-game ban for first-offense violent crimes. The rule was first applied to players such as Adam “Pacman” Jones, establishing a precedent that now guides the league’s response to Broncos safety Jonathon Cooper’s felony assault charge.

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Story summary

Jonathon Cooper returned to Broncos practice on Wednesday after missing minicamp due to two arrests.
Cooper faces a second-degree felony assault charge by strangulation, three misdemeanors, and an August 31 arraignment in Colorado.
The Broncos required Cooper to complete counseling and met with head coach Sean Payton, GM George Paton, and owner Greg Penner.
Payton said Cooper’s situation will not be a distraction, though the player could receive a six-game NFL suspension.

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