yahoo
The Denver Broncos have promoted outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper to their 53-man roster, the team announced, clearing the way for him to suit up in Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Cooper had been on a roster exemption that was set to expire on Monday, but the Broncos needed to activate him by Saturday for him to be available for the Cardinals game. The team had an open spot on the 53-man roster after placing fellow outside linebacker Jonah Elliss on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, which will sideline him for at least the next four games.
Cooper, 28, has spent the first six games of the 2024 season on the commissioner's exempt list following two offseason arrests related to incidents involving his former girlfriend. He is facing multiple charges, including a felony assault charge. The NFL reinstated him after his trial was postponed to March.
Now in his sixth season, Cooper is eligible to play for the Broncos while his legal proceedings remain pending.
Key Analysis
Cooper's return provides a boost to Denver's pass rush, though his off-field situation continues to cast a shadow. The Broncos are thin at outside linebacker with Elliss out, making Cooper's activation a necessary move for depth. His availability for Sunday's game against Arizona could be immediate, but the team may monitor his workload given his extended absence from game action.
Originally reported by yahoo.