The Las Vegas Raiders have extended an exclusive rights free-agent tender to defensive end Charles Snowden, securing his place with the team for the upcoming season. This move, confirmed by reporter Mike Garafolo, highlights the Raiders’ continued investment in Snowden’s development.
Snowden’s Journey Through the NFL
At 27 years old, Snowden was a three-year starter for Virginia, where he earned second-team All-ACC honors in his final collegiate season. Although undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft, Snowden initially signed with the Chicago Bears as a free agent. After being waived during preseason, he joined their practice squad and later signed a futures contract for 2022. Despite this, he was cut again in September of that year.
Snowden caught brief stints afterward, signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in November 2022 but being released following the 2023 training camp. He subsequently joined the Raiders’ practice squad in December 2023 and remained there even after signing a futures deal and being released after camp.
2024 Season and Performance Highlights
Snowden was promoted to the Raiders’ active roster for the 2024 season and spent the year on the 53-man roster. He re-signed with Las Vegas during the offseason and appeared in 15 games in 2025, starting nine of them. His contributions included 28 total tackles, three sacks, and two passes defended, demonstrating his growing role on the team’s defensive line.
Implications of the Tender for Raiders and Snowden
The exclusive rights tender ensures the Raiders maintain control over Snowden without competition from other teams, allowing them to continue developing a player familiar with their system. For Snowden, this tender represents stability and an opportunity to build on his recent starting experience as he looks to solidify his NFL career.
The #Raiders have extended a tender to exclusive rights free agent DE Charles Snowden, who had three sacks and his first career INT in 15 games (nine starts) this past season. pic.twitter.com/q266U7Eeto
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 6, 2026
