Cooper’s return was announced after a motions hearing in Douglas County, where he appeared with high-profile defense attorney Harvey Steinberg. He had entered a not guilty plea to the charges on August 31, and the case timeline includes a speedy-trial request with a March 2-4 date set for trial, though there is potential for travel if cleared from the commissioner’s list. A second arrest related to a violation of a protection order from the first incident has been noted, and the ongoing legal process could still intersect with NFL disciplinary proceedings, depending on how the case unfolds.
The Broncos value Cooper highly on defense, and his absence had been felt through the early weeks of the season. While he is cleared to play and can rejoin team activities, NFL investigators are still assessing the situation under the league’s personal conduct policy, so league discipline remains a possibility in the future. The NFL stated that the investigation remains ongoing and is not affected by the roster status change. Cooper could rejoin the active roster and play in upcoming games if all procedural steps are completed.
