The NFL has removed linebacker Jonathon Cooper from the exempt list, clearing him for a potential season debut against the Arizona Cardinals.

The National Football League officially removed Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper from the Commissioner Exempt List on Friday, according to information published by bleache.

This crucial roster move makes the veteran defender immediately eligible to make his long-awaited season debut during the upcoming Week 7 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on October 25.

Cooper was initially placed on the exempt list back on August 30, which barred him from participating in team practices or attending games until his recent reinstatement by league officials.

Jonathon Cooper NFL Career Statistics

Entering his sixth professional season with the franchise, Cooper was selected by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL draft out of Ohio State.

During a productive 2025 campaign, the 28-year-old edge rusher recorded 50 total tackles, 16 quarterback hits, eight sacks, and four passes defended across all 17 regular-season games.

Demonstrating impressive consistency on the defensive front, Cooper has successfully amassed at least eight sacks in each of the past three consecutive NFL seasons.

Denver Broncos 2026 Season Outlook

Following a deep postseason run that ended in the AFC Championship Game last year, the Denver Broncos have opened the 2026 NFL campaign with a solid 4-2 record.

The team enters this stretch after securing a hard-fought 17-14 overtime victory over the Seattle Seahawks during a dramatic Thursday night football broadcast.

Underpinning this early success, the Denver Broncos still maintain one of the league's top defensive units, currently ranking No. 9 by allowing just 20.8 points per game.

Week 7 Matchup Against Arizona Cardinals

With their star linebacker now fully reinstated and eligible to return to the active roster, the defensive unit prepares for an important cross-conference test in Arizona.

The highly anticipated kickoff between the Denver Broncos and the Arizona Cardinals on October 25 is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET at State Farm Stadium.

Coaching staff and fans alike hope that Cooper's return will provide an immediate boost to the pass rush as the franchise pursues another deep playoff run.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can Jonathon Cooper play for the Denver Broncos?

Jonathon Cooper is eligible to make his season debut for the Denver Broncos during their Week 7 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on October 25.

Why was Jonathon Cooper on the Commissioner Exempt List?

Jonathon Cooper was placed on the Commissioner Exempt List on August 30, which barred him from practicing or attending games until his removal on Friday.

How many sacks did Jonathon Cooper record last season?

During the 2025 NFL campaign, Jonathon Cooper recorded eight sacks, marking his third consecutive season reaching that impressive defensive milestone.