The team now faces a pragmatic decision about how to proceed behind standout edge rusher Jonathon Cooper. After his two arrests in a single week, the Broncos must prepare for the possibility of missing time, whether due to suspension, legal proceedings, or even a potential release. The situation has forced the coaching staff to re-evaluate the depth chart at outside linebacker and edge rusher, with significant implications for the defense’s performance in the forthcoming season.
Despite the potential absence of Cooper, the coaching staff reportedly remains confident in the players available to contribute on the edge. The program’s leadership has emphasized that a balanced, well-rounded group can still sustain the high level of play that the defense has demonstrated. This comes at a time when the team had already faced roster changes in the pass-rush department, including the departure of major contributors from the previous year.
Denver’s defensive success has hinged on two principal factors: relentless pass rush and elite coverage on the perimeter. In recent seasons, the Broncos set franchise records for sacks, underscoring their ability to pressure quarterbacks from multiple angles. Cornerback Patrick Surtain II has also played a pivotal role, tightening coverage on opposing top receivers and allowing the defense to thrive with aggressive schemes and strategic matchups.
However, Cooper’s potential absence adds uncertainty to that equation. Bonitto is established as a premier edge rusher for the club, but his effectiveness is often enhanced when a counterpart demands attention across the line. Cooper’s production—averaging a high sack total over the last couple of seasons—helped keep opponents honest and created opportunities for Bonitto to exploit one-on-one blocks. Without Cooper, the Broncos must rely on other players to fill the pressure void and maintain the defense’s relentless tempo.
The roster currently features several contenders who could step into a larger role on the edge, including players who have shown flashes but have yet to prove themselves as consistent impact rushers. Among the candidates are Jonah Elliss, Que Robinson, and Dondrea Tilman. Of the group, Elliss has the most experience in the role, contributing a solid sack total as a rookie and providing versatility in coverage and alignment. In 2024, Elliss contributed a notable number of sacks while backing up Cooper and Bonitto; in the following season, injuries limited his production, signaling both potential and a need for health and development to sustain a robust pass rush.
Head coach Sean Payton has publicly commented on Elliss’ alignment, indicating that the player’s strengths may keep him outside rather than moving him inside, at least for the time being. This assessment suggests that Elliss could be a primary candidate to assume a larger duty as an edge rusher, should Cooper be unavailable for extended periods. The other two players—Robinson and Tilman—are younger, with varying levels of experience and consistency. A successful transition for any of them would require rapid adjustment to the demands of facing top-tier NFL tackles week after week.
Beyond the on-field considerations, the Broncos’ plan to sustain a high-caliber defense will depend on smart deployment, depth development, and the ability to maximize the team’s overall pass-rush schemes. The organization has to balance aggressive pressure with the discipline to prevent coverage breakdowns and to maintain sacks and disruption without compromising gaps in the run game or in pass defense.
As training camp approaches, observers will be watching how the coaching staff communicates roles, builds competition, and establishes a clear path for the edge group. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for identifying which player steps forward as a reliable counterpart to Bonitto and for determining whether the defense can continue its recent trajectory without Cooper’s production.
In summary, the Broncos face a pivotal moment at the edge position. While the defense has thrived with a strong pass rush and elite corner play, the team must address the potential absence of Jonathon Cooper by cultivating one of the up-and-coming edge players to emerge as a star. The outcome of these developments will significantly influence the Broncos’ ability to sustain a top-tier defense and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.
