The Denver Broncos are getting back linebacker Jonathan Cooper for their Week 7 game against the Arizona Cardinals after it was announced that Cooper was removed from the Commissioner’s Exempt List.
Jonathon Cooper is coming off the commissioner exempt list today, and he is expected to be eligible to play in Denver’s Week 7 game vs. Arizona, sources tell me and @JFowlerESPN. pic.twitter.com/bGYJ5NNPmz
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 16, 2026
Prior to this year, Cooper had not missed a game for the Broncos since 2022, after being drafted by Denver in the seventh round in 2021. Over the past two years, he had 18.5 sacks and 36 quarterback hits. Cooper also played on special teams, especially in his first two years in the NFL.
Even without one of their starting linebackers, Denver’s defense has been one of the best pass defenses in the NFL. In each of the past two games, they have generated three turnovers and are 4-2 after defeating the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday.
However, the Broncos have struggled defensively against the run. Cooper should help with that, as he was regarded as a solid run stopper for Denver last season. Especially with the Broncos facing the reigning Super Bowl MVP, running back Kenneth Walker III, in two weeks, they need Cooper back in the lineup.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Broncos LB Jonathon Cooper removed from Commissioner's Exempt List