ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Jonathon Cooper's life has been a whirlwind of emotions lately. The Denver Broncos star linebacker found out he was going to get paid big time — really big time — when he learned he was in line for a massive contract extension. He was reportedly thrilled to hear the news that would change his life forever.
But his euphoria was short-lived. Just days later, he received news that left him reeling. The Broncos traded his longtime pal and fellow linebacker Baron Browning to the Arizona Cardinals. The move left Cooper heartbroken.
In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press, Cooper opened up about the rollercoaster of emotions he experienced in a span of just a few days. 'I was on cloud nine when I heard the news about my contract. It's life-changing money,' Cooper said. 'But then I heard about Baron, and it was like everything came crashing down.'
Cooper and Browning have been close friends since their college days, and their bond only grew stronger when they became teammates in Denver. The two linebackers formed an inseparable duo on and off the field, often spending hours talking about football, life, and everything in between.
'Baron is more than just a teammate to me. He's a brother,' Cooper said, his voice filled with emotion. 'I've known him for years, and we've been through thick and thin together. To lose him like that is tough.'
Despite the initial shock and sadness, Cooper understands the business side of the NFL. He knows that trades are an unfortunate reality of the game and that sometimes, players have to move on. However, that doesn't make it any easier.
'I'm happy for Baron. He's getting an opportunity to start fresh in a new place and show what he can do,' Cooper said. 'But selfishly, I'm going to miss him. We had some great times together, and I'm going to miss our talks and our camaraderie.
Cooper is now focused on the season ahead, determined to make the most of his new contract and prove himself as one of the best linebackers in the league. While he's excited about the future, he knows that the journey won't be the same without his partner in crime by his side.
'I'll always cherish the memories I made with Baron,' Cooper said. 'But I know I have to move on and focus on the task at hand. I'm ready to put in the work and show the world what I'm capable of.'