Jonathon Cooper Bio
Jonathon Cooper is an American professional football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes. After being drafted in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Cooper faced health challenges but has established himself as a key player for his team.
Early Life and Background
Jonathon Cooper was born on January 8, 1998, in Gahanna, Ohio. His mother, Jessica Moorman, was a high school student at the time and worked part-time at an accounting firm. Initially, she considered putting Cooper up for adoption but ultimately decided to raise him after he was born nine weeks premature. Following two months in the intensive care unit, she graduated high school and earned her college degree. Cooper began playing football at the age of six, inspired by his mother’s strong work ethic. Before high school, he and his mother created a workout circuit in their basement to help him prepare for the sport. During his freshman year, Cooper was diagnosed with Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome, a heart condition that can cause an abnormally fast heartbeat.
Path to American Football
Jonathon Cooper played college football at Ohio State University from 2016 to 2020. Over his career, he participated in more than 45 games, recording 75 tackles and 10 sacks. Notably, Cooper was the first Ohio State player to wear the number 0, a number awarded to him for his leadership qualities. His college career laid a strong foundation for his transition to professional football.
Jonathon Cooper Career
Early Career (2021-Present)
Jonathon Cooper was drafted in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos, being the 239th overall pick. Just two days before the draft, doctors discovered an atrial fibrillation in his heart, which required three procedures to treat. Despite these health complications, he was selected by the Broncos, who appreciated his motor and leadership skills. After missing rookie minicamp and other training activities due to his heart procedures, he signed a four-year rookie contract with the Broncos on June 15, 2021.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
Ahead of the 2023 season, Cooper changed his jersey number from 53 to 0, the same number he wore at Ohio State. He led the Broncos in sacks during the 2023 season, achieving eight and a half sacks. On November 4, 2024, he signed a four-year, $60 million contract extension with the Broncos after starting the season with five and a half sacks through nine games. By the end of the 2024 season, he recorded his first double-digit sack season, finishing with a total of 10.5 sacks. On March 21, 2025, his contract was restructured to create cap space, and he was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 6 after recording two sacks in a game against the New York Jets.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jonathon Cooper’s signature work includes his performance during the 2024 season, where he achieved a career milestone with double-digit sacks. His leadership and resilience have made him a standout player for the Denver Broncos.
Jonathon Cooper Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jonathon Cooper has received notable nominations, including being recognized as a Second-team All-American and Third-team All-Big Ten in 2020.
Jonathon Cooper Awards Won
Jonathon Cooper has not won any major awards as of yet, but his achievements in college football and his early professional career indicate a promising future.
Jonathon Cooper Family
Information regarding Jonathon Cooper’s family is limited. His mother, Jessica Moorman, played a significant role in his upbringing and athletic development.
Personal Life
Details about Jonathon Cooper’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly available. His focus remains on his professional football career with the Denver Broncos.
