NFL Players Placed on Commissioner’s Exempt List
Three NFL players have been placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List as the 2026 season gains momentum. Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs, Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper, and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Terrion Arnold face a challenging start to their season with this decision.
The Commissioner’s Exempt List serves as a special player status. Only utilized in unusual situations, it allows players to be temporarily excluded from the Active List limit. NFL clubs cannot independently place players on this list; only the Commissioner has this authority. The duration of a player’s exemption might be fixed or indefinite, depending on the Commissioner’s discretion.
Legal Troubles Affecting Player Status
Josh Jacobs was charged with one count of battery and one count of criminal damage to property following a domestic incident earlier in Green Bay. If convicted, Jacobs might face up to $20,000 in fines or 18 months in prison for the misdemeanor charges.
Jonathon Cooper of the Denver Broncos is also facing legal issues. He was arrested in June for allegedly violating a protection order related to a previous domestic violence charge.
Terrion Arnold was charged with kidnapping and armed robbery in June. After the arrest, the Detroit Lions released him, but he later joined the Seattle Seahawks. However, his return to the field remains uncertain.
Other Players Facing Disciplinary Actions
The Exempt List is not limited to these three; other players are also dealing with legal troubles. Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was jailed for 30 days after probation violations relating to a 2025 plea agreement. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Rams player Puka Nacua faces potential discipline after allegedly biting a woman in March and subsequently entering rehab.
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman faces domestic violence charges from an incident that took place in June.
The NFL may decide on disciplinary actions against these players, impacting their participation in the 2026 season. Updates from OutKick’s Armando Salguero provide insights into these developments.