Summary (tl;dr)

Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper has been arrested twice in eight days on domestic violence-related charges, most recently for violating a protection order. He is currently facing felony and misdemeanor charges, including second-degree assault by strangulation.

Essential Background

Jonathon Cooper is a prominent outside linebacker for the Denver Broncos, who signed a four-year, $60 million contract extension in 2024 and recorded eight sacks during the 2025 season. He was initially arrested on June 4th for alleged domestic violence and criminal mischief following an altercation with his girlfriend. Cooper pleaded not guilty to these initial misdemeanor charges on June 9th.

The Full Story

On June 12, 2026, Jonathon Cooper was arrested for a second time in a week on charges that he violated a protection order filed against him earlier in the week. He was booked into Douglas County Jail, facing new charges including harassment from repeated phone calls and violation of a protection order. This latest arrest came after deputies responded to an apartment in Arapahoe County where his ex-girlfriend reported he had been knocking on her door and sending numerous messages, making her feel "scared."

Following his initial arrest on June 4th, prosecutors added a felony charge of second-degree assault by strangulation and a misdemeanor charge of third-degree assault to the case. The initial incident reportedly stemmed from an argument over alleged infidelity and damaged cellphones. Cooper admitted to grabbing his girlfriend's arm, bracing his neck against hers, and damaging her phone by biting it in an attempt to retrieve it.

Why It Matters

The repeated arrests and serious charges against a key player like Jonathon Cooper have significant implications for his NFL career and the Denver Broncos organization. The NFL has stated it is in contact with the Broncos regarding the arrests and could take action under the league's personal conduct policy. The Broncos have expressed their disappointment and are reviewing the matter. Cooper's ongoing legal issues could lead to a trial, potentially impacting his availability for upcoming team activities, including training camp.

Geographic Location

• Parker, Douglas County, Colorado, United States (arrests for domestic violence and protection order violation)
• Douglas County Jail, Douglas County, Colorado, United States (booking and detention following arrests)
• Douglas County, Colorado, United States (ongoing legal proceedings)
• 7350 S. Havana Street, Arapahoe County, Colorado, United States (site of reported protection order violation)