The NFL is known for its strict enforcement of player conduct on the field, and every Saturday, players across the league brace for news they’d rather not hear—fines for infractions during the previous week’s games. These penalties are no small matter, often costing players thousands of dollars. This week, Denver Broncos pass rusher Jonathon Cooper, a former Ohio State Buckeye, found himself in the league’s crosshairs.
The NFL fined Cooper $12,668 for roughing the passer during the fourth quarter of the Broncos’ Week 13 victory over the Cleveland Browns. The play in question involved a hit on Browns quarterback Jameis Winston, which the league categorized as a blow to the head or neck. Interestingly, Cooper was not penalized for the hit during the game, leaving some to question the NFL’s retroactive disciplinary action.
A Rising Star in the NFL
Despite the fine, Jonathon Cooper is enjoying the best season of his young professional career. A seventh-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Cooper has steadily improved over the past few years to become a key player for the Broncos. This season, he has already recorded eight sacks, just shy of his career-high 8.5 sacks, with several games still remaining.
In addition to his impressive sack total, Cooper has tallied 49 tackles and forced a fumble, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His development as a pass rusher has been instrumental for the Broncos, so much so that they felt comfortable parting ways with fellow Buckeye and former teammate Baron Browning, who now plays for the Arizona Cardinals.
From College Standout to NFL Success
Cooper’s rise in the NFL contrasts with his more modest production during his college years at Ohio State. Over five seasons with the Buckeyes, Cooper recorded a total of 10 sacks, with his best season coming as a senior when he notched 3.5 sacks. While his college stats were solid, they didn’t necessarily predict the level of success he’s achieved at the professional level.
This transformation from a dependable college player to a standout NFL performer underscores the unpredictable nature of football careers. Some players, like Cooper, find their stride in the pros, leveraging their talent and work ethic to exceed expectations.
Learning from Adversity
While the $12,668 fine is a setback, it serves as a reminder for Cooper to tread carefully when making plays on the field. Hits deemed too aggressive, particularly against quarterbacks, are heavily scrutinized in today’s NFL. Cooper will likely take this incident as a learning opportunity, aiming to adjust his approach while maintaining the intensity that has made him such a valuable asset for the Broncos.
Buckeyes Shining in the Pros
Jonathon Cooper’s success is part of a broader trend of Ohio State alumni making their mark in the NFL. From established stars to emerging talents like Cooper, Buckeyes continue to demonstrate their ability to excel at the highest level of the sport. Cooper’s journey, from his days at Ohio State to becoming a key player for the Denver Broncos, is a testament to his perseverance and dedication.
As the season progresses, Cooper will look to continue building on his impressive performances while avoiding further fines. Regardless of the setback, his breakout year cements his status as one of the NFL’s rising defensive stars—and yet another example of a Buckeye doing big things on the professional stage.
