The Denver Broncos Already Have Jonathon Cooper’s Replacement

The Denver Broncos are going to be entering the season without Jonathon Cooper, as he was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list following two June arrests and pending domestic-violence charges. 

Cooper’s absence leaves Denver without an established player on their defense. Just in 2025, he ended up with eight sacks and has accumulated 31.5 sacks over his career so far.

While the loss of Cooper impacts their defense, the Broncos already have their answer to fill his void, and it is Jonah Elliss.

Jonah Elliss Has Already Shown He Can Fill the Role

When the Broncos went on to select Elliss in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, he had his skills translate to the NFL, recording 31 tackles and five sacks despite playing behind Cooper and Nik Bonitto. 

His numbers dipped in 2025 as he had just 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks, but he still continues to show flashes over the opportunities he was given. With Cooper out, his time on the field is about to skyrocket again.

Elliss possesses the explosiveness, motor, and developing pass-rush skills needed to consistently pressure quarterbacks. His athletic upside is undeniable, and with playing opposite Bonitto, Elliss should earn even more favorable matchups to put his skills on display. 

Denver doesn’t need Elliss to immediately become Cooper; they just need him to create pressure and remain disciplined against the run. If he can build on the training camp he has, he has the potential to earn a larger role for the future.