Charles Woods Bio
Charles Woods is an American professional football cornerback currently playing for the New England Patriots in the National Football League (NFL). Born on June 17, 2000, Woods has demonstrated notable agility and defensive skills throughout his college football career and is now advancing in the professional league.
Early Life and Background
Charles Woods was born in Dallas, Texas, and attended Justin F. Kimball High School. During high school, he was a multi-sport athlete, participating in football, basketball, and track and field. In football, he earned second-team all-district honors as a junior and first-team honors as a senior, finishing his final year with 35 receptions for 678 yards, 27 carries for 148 yards, and 16 total touchdowns.
Despite being a no-star recruit, Woods committed to Illinois State University to play college football. His early exposure to competitive sports in Dallas laid the foundation for his athletic development and future football career.
Path to American Football
Woods began his college football career at Illinois State, where he played as a defensive back. As a freshman in 2018, he appeared in 11 games, starting three, and recorded 16 tackles. He became a full-time starter in 2019, playing all 15 games and earning honorable mention FCS Sophomore All-American honors by HERO Sports. That season, he tallied 48 tackles, four interceptions, and 17 passes defended, ranking second in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.
After the 2020 season, Woods transferred to West Virginia University. In 2021, he contributed 31 tackles, two interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. He redshirted in 2022 but appeared in four games, starting three. For his final year of eligibility, Woods transferred to Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he started all 14 games in 2023 and led the team with 11 pass breakups, earning third-team All-American Athletic Conference honors.
Charles Woods Career
Early Career (2018–2020)
Woods’ early collegiate career at Illinois State saw steady progression. From a part-time starter as a freshman to a key defensive player by his sophomore year, he established himself as a reliable cornerback. His 2019 season was particularly impressive, highlighted by multiple interceptions and passes defended, which showcased his defensive instincts and coverage skills.
The 2020 season was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Woods still managed to start all four games, recording 20 tackles and two interceptions. His performance during these years set the stage for his transfer to a higher-profile program.
West Virginia Mountaineers Era (2021–2022)
At West Virginia, Woods adapted to a new competitive environment in the Big 12 Conference. In 2021, he contributed solid defensive statistics, including tackles and turnovers. Although he redshirted in 2022, Woods remained an important part of the team’s defensive plans, appearing in four games and starting three.
SMU Mustangs Breakthrough (2023)
Woods’ final collegiate season at SMU marked a career highlight. Starting all 14 games, he led the team in pass breakups with 11 and posted 27 tackles. His strong performance earned him third-team All-American Athletic Conference recognition, underscoring his growth and readiness for professional play.
Professional Career (2024–Present)
After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, Charles Woods signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a free agent. He made the Rams’ initial 53-man roster for the 2024 season and remained with the team through early 2025, including time on the practice squad and signing a reserve/future contract. In August 2025, Woods was waived by the Rams and promptly claimed off waivers by the New England Patriots, where he currently plays.
Playing Style and Strengths
Charles Woods is known for his agility, quickness, and strong defensive instincts. His ability to break up passes and create turnovers has been a consistent strength throughout his college and professional career. Woods’ versatility and coverage skills make him a valuable asset in the secondary.
Notable Events and Milestones
Woods’ third-team All-American Athletic Conference selection in 2023 stands out as a key milestone. His journey from a no-star recruit to an NFL roster player highlights his determination and development as a cornerback.
Charles Woods Career Wins
While primarily a defensive player, Charles Woods’ career is marked by impactful plays rather than traditional wins. His interceptions, pass breakups, and tackles have contributed significantly to his teams’ defensive successes at the collegiate level.
College Highlights
Woods’ collegiate career includes multiple interceptions and a high number of passes defended, especially during his time at Illinois State and SMU. His 2019 season at Illinois State and 2023 season at SMU were particularly notable for his defensive contributions.
Professional Highlights
Making the Los Angeles Rams’ 53-man roster as an undrafted free agent in 2024 was a significant professional achievement. His subsequent signing by the New England Patriots in 2025 reflects his ongoing value in the NFL.
Charles Woods Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Details about Charles Woods’ family background and personal life are not publicly available. He maintains a professional focus on his football career.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Charles Woods joined the New England Patriots after being claimed off waivers. This transition represents a new chapter in his professional career. Woods aims to establish himself as a key contributor in the Patriots’ secondary, leveraging his collegiate experience and previous NFL exposure. His performance and development during the 2025 season will be critical for his long-term career prospects.