Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper is heading to a court hearing this Friday, and the timing couldn’t be worse for Denver fans. With training camp kicking off Tuesday, his case is expected to be continued, leaving a massive cloud hanging over the team as they get ready for the season.
The Charges Loom Large
This isn’t just some minor legal hiccup. Cooper was arrested *twice* back in June, and he’s staring down multiple charges from a June 4 incident involving his then-girlfriend. We’re talking serious stuff here: second-degree assault, third-degree assault, criminal mischief, violating a protective order, and harassment via repeated telephone calls. That’s a stacked deck, plain and simple. He’ll be appearing virtually with his attorney, Harvey Steinberg, before a Douglas County (Colorado) judge, but the expectation is that they’ll just punt this down the road. Unresolved. Before camp. What a mess.
Off-Field Focus and On-Field Talent
Cooper already sat out minicamp last month, a “mutual decision” with the team, to focus on his “personal health and well-being.” Mike Klis of 9News reported that Cooper just wrapped up over a month in an inpatient counseling, therapy, mental health, and overall wellness program. It sounds like he’s trying to get things right off the field, which is good to hear. On the field, the 28-year-old has been a force. He’s stacked up 31.5 sacks in his first five seasons, with a huge 27 of those coming in the last three years alone. This guy can play.
What’s next for Cooper? Another court date, most likely. The Broncos report to camp on Tuesday, and this entire situation remains a massive question mark. You’ve gotta wonder how much this will be a distraction as the team tries to lock in for the season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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