Sean Payton on Jonathon Cooper: We’re staying the course with league protocol - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com reported that Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper returned to team activities Wednesday, taking part in the club’s first training camp practice after missing minicamp following two arrests on domestic violence charges. The report, published July 29, 2026, said head coach Sean Payton addressed Cooper’s status as the Broncos began camp.

According to NBCSports.com, Payton said he, general manager George Paton and owner Greg Penner met with Cooper after the arrests. Payton said Cooper also completed a counseling program that the team required as part of his process to return. Payton described Cooper’s work away from the facility positively while emphasizing that the team is following both NFL and club procedures and recognizes the seriousness of the matter.

The report said Cooper is scheduled for an Aug. 31 arraignment on several charges, including a second-degree assault count involving alleged strangulation. The case remains active, and the article noted that Cooper could also be subject to discipline from the NFL under its Personal Conduct Policy.

The development matters because Cooper is back on the field while facing unresolved legal proceedings and possible league action. NFL teams often must balance roster preparation with internal policies, legal processes and league review when players face serious off-field allegations. NBCSports.com’s account indicates the Broncos are allowing Cooper to participate for now while continuing to monitor the situation under league and team guidance.