NFL commissioner Roger Goodell cleared Cooper to return to team activities last Friday after the linebacker's trial date was rescheduled from November to March. While Cooper is now back at practice, the league has clarified that its internal review of the case remains ongoing, meaning he could still face potential discipline under the NFL's personal conduct policy in the future.
Addressing Accountability and Legal Proceedings
Speaking to reporters following his return, Cooper emphasized that he holds himself accountable for his actions and offered no excuses regarding the circumstances that led to his absence. When asked about the impact of his situation on the public and fans, the linebacker acknowledged the gravity of the allegations.
“I do apologize for anybody's feelings, truthfully, because you have to be associated with me,” Cooper said. “I'm a grown man, I'm able to take things on the chin and I understand the concern, the awareness, how serious these matters are. The legal matters will take care of themselves.”
Cooper faces a felony charge of second-degree assault by strangulation, alongside three misdemeanor charges, including the violation of a protection order. The allegations stem from two separate arrests on June 4 and June 11 involving incidents with his girlfriend. Broncos head coach Sean Payton noted that the organization has required Cooper to participate in therapy as part of their internal guidelines during his time away from the active roster.
Roster Status and Team Context
While Cooper has been cleared to practice, the Broncos currently have a one-week roster exemption for the player. To make him eligible for game-day participation, including this Sunday’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, the team must officially add him to the 53-player active roster. During his time on the exempt list, Cooper continued to receive his salary, though any future suspension under the personal conduct policy would be unpaid, potentially requiring him to return those earnings.
The Broncos, who currently hold a 4-2 record, have maintained a strong defensive presence in Cooper's absence. The team is tied for third in the league with 18 sacks and ranks 10th in scoring defense, allowing an average of 20.8 points per game. A seventh-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Cooper has been a consistent contributor for Denver, recording 31.5 sacks over 81 career games. He has started every game for the franchise in each of the past three seasons.
