Jonathan Cooper's future with the Broncos has suddenly become uncertain, and that could create an opening for one of Denver's promising young defenders, a 2025 fourth-round pick. In fact, even the team GM backs the player up.

Cooper, who signed a four-year, $54 million extension, is dealing with legal issues as the Broncos prepare for training camp. While the situation continues to play out, second-year edge rusher Que Robinson could be in line for a bigger role than expected.

"Que may have the most upside of anyone in our draft class. You could see it the other day. He's explosive, he's long, he's physical, and he's just scratching the surface," general manager George Paton said after the 2026 NFL Draft on June 12.

According to The Denver Post, George Paton is not exactly known for throwing around exaggerated praise, which is why his recent comments about Que Robinson immediately stood out.

While discussing a rookie class featuring names like Jahdae Barron, RJ Harvey, and Sai'vion Jones, the Broncos GM surprisingly singled out Robinson, admitting the young defender “may have the most upside of anyone in our draft class.”

Cooper's next court hearing was initially scheduled for July 24, only four days before the Broncos' veterans are due to report for training camp.

Meanwhile, Robinson's rookie season was limited by injuries, limiting him to six outings last year. Still, he made the most of his chances with half a sack, a pass defender, and 12 total tackles.

"When Que played, he played really well. It looked like a guy who can be a future starter for us," defensive coordinator Vance Joseph said in a minicamp media session in June.

Now, with Cooper's availability still unclear, the young pass rusher could find himself with an even greater opportunity to prove he belongs in Denver's defensive rotation as training camp gets closer.

Broncos wait for clarity on Jonathan Cooper

Jonathan Cooper's legal case is still unfolding, and with training camp getting closer, the Broncos could soon have some important decisions to make

Head coach Sean Payton said the team is still gathering information before making any decisions.

"We'll consider all of that as we continue to gather the information," Payton said in June, according to the Broncos Wire.

With the legal process likely stretching into training camp, the Broncos and the NFL could be forced to determine his playing status before the case concludes.

Under the NFL's personal conduct policy, a player can't face discipline even with a criminal conviction, according to the Denver Post.

Now with training camp approaching, Robinson appears well-positioned to take advantage of any extra snaps that come his way.

Can Que Robinson make the most of this opportunity if more snaps come his way? Let us know what you think.

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Written by

Debanjali Rakshit

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote