Johnathon Cooper Gets More Than Deserved Extension

Earlier this week, it was announced that pass rusher Jonathon Cooper has secured a contract extension with the Denver Broncos, reportedly structured as a four-year deal worth $60 million. This amounts to an average salary of approximately $15 million per season, which is a very good rate for a successful edge rusher. However, the actual terms of the deal are even more favorable than initially suggested, as agents often highlight the maximum potential value of contracts. Cooper's four-year extension is actually valued at $54 million, translating to an average annual salary of $13.5 million, with the possibility of earning an additional $6 million through performance incentives. This new contract provides Cooper with a well-merited salary increase, featuring over $16.7 million in guaranteed money. Meanwhile, the Broncos benefit from finalizing the extension before free agency, resulting in a contract that is advantageous for the team as well. This arrangement has proven to be mutually beneficial.

At 26 years old, Cooper is tied with teammate Nik Bonitto for the highest number of sacks on the team over the past two seasons, totaling 14. After leading the Broncos with 8.5 sacks last year, he is now on track to achieve his first season with double-digit sacks in 2024. He certainly merits every dollar of his new contract. His deal comes on the heels of former teammate Baron Browning's trade to the Cardinals, a move that upset him due to his relationship with Browning. Unfortunately, the decision had to be made by the Broncos' front office, as both of these young pass rushers are in contract years, and Cooper has been significantly superior. The young pass rusher has been a tremendous positive for this Denver team, and he will continue to be so for the foreseeable future.