Cowboys pass rusher Charles Snowden suspended 3 games by NFL after DUI plea
Charles Snowden Faces Three-Game NFL Suspension Following DUI Resolution
Cowboys pass rusher Charles Snowden suspended 3 - The Dallas Cowboys have been informed that their outside linebacker Charles Snowden will miss the opening three contests of the 2026 NFL campaign. According to the league's transactional wire, this disciplinary action was announced on Tuesday. An NFL representative verified to Fox News Digital that the suspension stems from a driving under the influence arrest that occurred in 2024. The matter was recently concluded after Snowden agreed to a plea arrangement.
Games Missed and Preseason Participation
Snowden's absence will impact several key matchups for Dallas. He will sit out the season-opening road contest against the New York Giants. Additionally, the Cowboys' home opener featuring the Washington Commanders will be missed. A third home fixture against the Baltimore Ravens is also on the list of games he cannot play. Despite the suspension, Snowden retains eligibility to participate in the team's preseason activities. The Cowboys are scheduled to compete in three preseason games before the regular season begins. The suspension officially takes effect once NFL rosters are reduced to their standard 53-man limit.
Legal Settlement Details
The 28-year-old linebacker finalized his plea agreement in January to resolve the 2024 DUI incident. Snowden entered a no contest plea to a misdemeanor DUI charge. Under the terms of the settlement, he must pay a fine of $1,000. He is also required to complete both coroner's education courses and DUI-related training programs. If Snowden fulfills all the specified requirements outlined in the agreement, his original charge will be downgraded to reckless driving. This legal resolution allows him to move forward without a more severe conviction on his record.
Career Trajectory and Team History
Snowden joined the Cowboys during the recent offseason as a free agent. His path to Dallas included a tryout session after he received an invitation to participate in minicamp. Originally an undrafted free agent from the University of Virginia, Snowden initially signed with the Chicago Bears in 2021. His early career with Chicago saw limited action. He appeared in only two games during his first season. He did not participate in any regular season games during the 2022 and 2023 campaigns. After his time in Chicago, Snowden moved to the Las Vegas Raiders, where he played during both 2024 and 2025. The 2025 season stands out as his most productive year to date. Across 15 games, which included nine starts, Snowden recorded three sacks. He accumulated 28 combined tackles and five tackles for loss. He also contributed defensively with one interception during that campaign.
Broader Context
NFL suspensions for off-field incidents typically follow a structured process. Players often receive notifications before the season begins, allowing teams to plan accordingly. The timing of Snowden's suspension ensures he can still contribute to team preparations during training camp and preseason activities. The Cowboys will need to adjust their defensive rotation during the first three weeks of the season. Snowden's experience and versatility provide valuable depth to the linebacker group. His ability to contribute in multiple roles makes him an important asset despite the temporary absence. Fans can stay updated on sports news through Fox News Digital's coverage on X. Subscribing to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter provides additional insights into team developments and player updates throughout the season. The resolution of Snowden's legal matter demonstrates how players can address off-field issues while maintaining their professional careers. His journey from undrafted free agent to a contributing NFL player highlights the persistence required to succeed at the professional level.