3 NFL stars hit Commissioner's Exempt List after offseason filled with legal trouble
Three Green Bay Packers players face significant season hurdles as the NFL takes disciplinary action just before the 2026 season kickoff. Running back Josh Jacobs, along with Denver Broncos linebacker Jonathon Cooper and Seattle Seahawks cornerback Terrion Arnold, were all placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List this weekend, effectively sidelining them from active roster counting.
Jacobs, the Packers' starting running back, is dealing with legal troubles stemming from a domestic incident near his Green Bay residence earlier this year. He faces two misdemeanor charges: one count of battery and one count of criminal damage to property. If convicted, he could face fines up to $20,000 or as much as 18 months in prison.
Cooper's placement comes after his arrest in June, when he was accused of violating a protection order related to an earlier domestic violence case. The Broncos linebacker now awaits resolution while unable to participate in team activities.
Arnold, a cornerback originally drafted by the Detroit Lions, found himself in legal jeopardy last June when he was arrested on kidnapping and armed robbery charges. The Lions released him following the arrest, but he later caught on with the Seahawks. His exempt status means he'll miss the beginning of the season regardless.
The Commissioner's Exempt List serves as a special designation allowing the league to temporarily remove players from active rosters under unusual circumstances. According to NFL rules, only the Commissioner possesses the authority to place players on this list, and the status is never automatic.
The three placements send a clear message about the league's approach to off-field conduct, though they may not represent the final word on player discipline this season. Several other high-profile players continue to face potential league action, including Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice, who served 30 days in jail this spring after violating probation from a 2025 plea agreement related to incidents from the previous offseason.
Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nacua could also face discipline after being accused of biting a woman in March, shortly before entering a rehabilitation program. Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman similarly remains under scrutiny following domestic violence charges from an incident in June.
The NFL has indicated it may hand down additional discipline affecting the 2026 season for these players, though no announcements have been made regarding timing or specific sanctions.