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NFL reinstates Jonathon Cooper after Exempt List removal

By Drooid · Oct 17, 2026, 2:50 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Jonathon Cooper Released

The NFL removed Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper from the Exempt List, making him eligible on Oct. 25.
Cooper faces a felony second-degree assault-strangulation charge and three misdemeanors, pleading not guilty.
His trial moved from mid-November to March 2-4, with a pre-trial hearing on Feb. 19.
The Broncos have a roster exemption for Cooper until Oct. 26.
Cooper continues receiving weekly $676,471 checks but forfeited $180,000 in bonuses.

Summary

Jonah Elliss Injured

Starting linebacker Jonah Elliss suffered a possible serious lower-leg injury in the final minute of the overtime win over Seattle.
Coach Sean Payton praised the defense’s takeaways after the victory.
Denver held Seattle to 113 rushing yards, recorded six sacks and forced three turnovers.
If Elliss moves to injured reserve, Cooper could immediately fill the starting outside-linebacker role.

History

Historical Context

After Commissioner Roger Goodell introduced a tougher Personal Conduct Policy on April 10 2007—prompted by Michael Vick’s August 24 2007 dog-fighting conviction that led to the seizure of over 70 dogs—the NFL began imposing league-wide discipline for criminal conduct. That precedent now guides the Broncos’ decision to place linebacker Jonathon Cooper on the Exempt List amid felony assault charges.

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Jonathon Cooper Released

The NFL removed Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper from the Exempt List, making him eligible on Oct. 25.
Cooper faces a felony second-degree assault-strangulation charge and three misdemeanors, pleading not guilty.
His trial moved from mid-November to March 2-4, with a pre-trial hearing on Feb. 19.
The Broncos have a roster exemption for Cooper until Oct. 26.
Cooper continues receiving weekly $676,471 checks but forfeited $180,000 in bonuses.

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