Every football program has some former players who end up getting into trouble once they leave. The Ohio State football program is no different. While the majority of their guys go on to do great things, on and off the field, not everyone is squeaky clean. Some guys have problems.
Some problems are a bigger deal than others. However, anytime there is a domestic violence situation, the matter needs to be taken very seriously. That is the situation that former Buckeye Jonathon Cooper finds himself in. He was arrested on domestic violence charges recently.
The issue stems between he and his girlfriend. Cooper was a seventh-round draft pick by the Denver Broncos in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has been a solid linebacker for them and not only made the team, but has made an impact. Now, he has a situation he needs to deal with off the field.
Former Ohio State DE Jonthon Cooper pleads not guilty in domestic violence case
Cooper pleaded not guilty to the domestic violence charges brought against him on Monday while in court. Cooper was charged with misdemeanor domestic violence tied to allegedly breaking his girlfriend's cell phone after she allegedly grabbed his. A court date has been set for July 6.
A potential jury trial would start on July 22, which is close to when the Broncos will open up training camp. There is a chance that he would be unavailable for the start of camp due to this situation. Of course, a lot still needs to be sorted out before that time gets here.
Cooper was nothing short of great while he was with the Ohio State Buckeyes. In fact, he was voted to wear the Block O jersey during his senior season. He was a leader whom everyone in the locker room looked up to. He is someone who was always in the right place at the right time with Ohio State, as well.
Jonathon Cooper could potentially face NFL discipline
Depending on how this case proceeds, there is a chance that Cooper could face some discipline from the NFL. He could be found to have violated the Personal Conduct Policy if he ends up being convicted of these charges. Denver could also decide to discipline him independent of that.
Last season, Cooper had eight sacks for the Broncos. That was the second-best on the team, which is impressive for a former seventh-round pick. Cooper also signed a four-year deal worth $60 million back in 2024. He clearly has made himself a valuable player for the Broncos.
Regardless of how this case plays out, Cooper needs to be able to not put himself in situations like this. He needs to be smarter when it comes to off-the-field situations. He is on the trajectory to being one of the best players that Denver has, and a mistake like this could derail that.
Facts will reveal themselves as the court date gets closer. At that point, things will get sorted out with Cooper and the legal system.
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