Denver Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper was arrested Thursday night and is being held at the Douglas County Detention Center on suspicion of two counts of domestic violence and one count of criminal mischief. Cooper, 28, was a seventh-round pick out of Ohio State in the 2021 NFL draft and is heading into what would be his sixth season with the Broncos. Authorities have released a few details about what allegedly happened.
According to 9NEWS, jail records list the three counts and show that Cooper was booked on Thursday evening. Veteran Broncos reporter Mike Klis also confirmed that the man being held in Douglas County is the Broncos linebacker, the outlet reported.
Cooper’s Role With the Broncos
The Denver Broncos’ official roster lists Cooper as the 239th overall selection in the 2021 draft, a late-round flyer who worked his way into a regular starting job and key edge-rushing role. He posted career-high sack numbers last season and is penciled in as a returning piece of the defense for his sixth NFL campaign.
What Happens Next Legally and With the NFL
An arrest is an allegation, not a conviction. Criminal bookings do not equal guilt, and it will be up to local prosecutors to decide whether to file formal charges or take the case to court. Separately, the NFL can review alleged off-field conduct under its Personal Conduct Policy and has, in previous cases, imposed discipline regardless of the outcome in criminal court, as Sports Illustrated explains.
Where the Case Stands Now
As of the time of this report, the Broncos had not released a public statement regarding Cooper’s arrest. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Detention Division outlines its public booking procedures and notes that detainees are held while they await charging decisions and arraignment, according to the sheriff’s website.
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