The NFL has suspended Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Charles Snowden for the first three games of the 2026 season following a 2024 DUI arrest that was recently resolved through a plea agreement. The suspension, announced on Tuesday, means Snowden will miss the Cowboys' season opener against the New York Giants, their home opener against the Washington Commanders, and another home game against the Baltimore Ravens.
Snowden, 28, will still be allowed to participate in preseason activities, including games, but the suspension will take effect once NFL rosters are reduced to 53 players. He pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor DUI charge in January, agreeing to pay a $1,000 fine and attend coroner’s and DUI courses. If he completes these requirements, his charge will be reduced to reckless driving.
Snowden signed with the Cowboys this offseason as a free agent after a tryout following an invitation to minicamp. He previously played for the Chicago Bears (2021), Las Vegas Raiders (2024-2025), and had his best season in 2025 with three sacks, 28 combined tackles, five tackles for loss, and one interception across 15 games (nine starts). His one-year, $1.075 million contract with Dallas means he will forfeit approximately $189,705 in game checks due to the suspension.
The Cowboys' revamped pass rush, which includes Rashan Gary, Malachi Lawrence, and Jaishawn Barham, may have limited Snowden’s playing time even without the suspension.