In recent developments, Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper found himself in legal trouble for the second time within a week. He was arrested on Thursday night for allegedly violating a protection order. This order followed his previous arrest related to domestic violence charges.
Cooper and his girlfriend faced charges last Friday, both held on suspicion of domestic violence and criminal mischief, according to records from Douglas County Jail. The pair were originally arrested on these charges, but court records reveal two more charges were added. These include a felony strangulation charge.
“We are disappointed to learn of Jonathon Cooper’s arrest on Thursday and continue to review this matter,” stated the Broncos organization.
The ongoing situation unfolded when Cooper’s girlfriend confronted him at his residence over alleged infidelity. This led to a confrontation where Cooper’s phone was thrown against a wall by the woman, as stated in the arrest affidavit reported by TMZ. A struggle ensued over the phone, which Cooper retrieved. In the heated exchange, he reportedly threatened to damage the woman’s phone if she did not leave his home.
Despite not leaving initially, the situation escalated with Cooper breaking the iPhone screen, according to the affidavit. He pleaded not guilty during the recent court proceedings on Monday.
Jonathon Cooper, 28, has been a significant part of the Broncos’ team since being drafted from Ohio State in the seventh round of the NFL Draft. With five seasons under his belt with Denver, he has been influential in the team’s defense. In the last season, he accumulated 50 tackles and eight sacks, contributing to his career totals of 266 tackles and 31.5 sacks over 81 games.
In November 2024, Cooper secured a four-year contract extension worth $60 million. His contribution comes at a time when his performance remains crucial to the Broncos’ defense.