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Cole Snyder is a driven, disciplined, and resilient quarterback who currently plays professionally for the Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League. He was born and raised in the small town of Lakewood, New York, where he learned early to overcome the challenges of playing football in an under‑recruited area. Cole became a natural competitor through his involvement in multiple sports, excelling in football, baseball, and hockey throughout high school. These experiences helped build the versatility and toughness that define his athletic identity. He loves to lead, teach, and elevate the people around him—qualities that continued to sharpen as he advanced through college football and into the professional ranks. His time at Rutgers, Buffalo, and Eastern Michigan shaped him into the quarterback and leader he is today.
Cole Snyder is an elite competitor with an outstanding work ethic. Through his experience as a great hs player, multiple year D1 starter and Pro QB, Cole has a wealth of knowledge of the schematics of football.
After closing out a strong college career, Cole earned an invite to the Detroit Lions rookie minicamp, where he stepped onto the field with something to prove — and delivered. He threw confidently, commanded the huddle, learned the playbook fast, and earned direct praise from Head Coach Dan Campbell, Offensive Coordinator John Morton, and Quarterbacks Coach Mark Brunell for his poise, accuracy, and ability to process the game at a high level. It was the kind of performance that gets noticed fast. His showing sparked interest from over 10 NFL teams, proving he belonged in the conversation at the next level—even if the roster spot didn’t open up at that moment.
In 2025, Cole took the next step and signed with the Edmonton Elks, embracing the CFL’s fast, high‑tempo style and stepping into a system built for playmakers. In Edmonton, he’s sharpening his command, elevating the quarterback room, and attacking every opportunity with the same grit that’s defined his entire career. Cole isn’t just in the league—he’s chasing impact, growth, and his next breakout moment.
Cole began his collegiate career at Rutgers, seeing the field as a freshman and gradually expanding his role. After entering the transfer portal in 2021, he moved to Buffalo, where he delivered a breakout 2022 season:
Cole transferred to Eastern Michigan in 2024, where he closed out his college career with another strong campaign:
These experiences—across three Division I programs—deepened Cole’s understanding of adversity, adaptability, and preparation, all of which fuel his growth as a quarterback.
Climbing Pikes Peak: As part of a special senior opportunity, Cole completed a climb of Colorado’s Pikes Peak (14,111 feet)—an intense physical and mental challenge that became symbolic of his approach to football and life: relentless, resilient, and team‑focused.
Epic Comeback Victory: One of the defining moments of the 2024 season came when Cole led an 18‑point comeback against Central Michigan, sealing the win with a quarterback sneak and his now‑iconic “thumbs up, thumbs down” celebration—an embodiment of toughness and competitive fire.
McLaren Health Internship: Beyond football, Cole expanded his leadership toolkit through a unique internship with McLaren Health, working closely with the CEO and CFO. This experience strengthened his understanding of communication, organizational strategy, and the discipline required in high‑pressure environments.
Camellia Bowl Victory: In the Camellia Bowl, Cole delivered one of his sharpest performances of the year. He piled up 265 passing yards, made big‑time throws all night, and ignited the stadium with a highlight‑reel moment when he broke the pocket and hurdled a defender to extend a crucial drive. His poise and playmaking set the tone from start to finish, powering his team to a statement bowl victory.
Cole grew up in Lakewood, New York, a small town and a very under-recruited area. Despite the limited spotlight, he developed into a true multi‑sport athlete, competing in football, hockey, and baseball throughout high school. That versatility shaped his athletic foundation, sharpening his competitiveness and instincts long before he stepped foot on a college field.
Two major coaching influences helped elevate his game during those years — Jehuu Caulcrick, a former NFL fullback, and John Kinder, a former Division I quarterback. Their experience, guidance, and belief in him accelerated his growth and deepened his love for the game.
But the biggest impact came from home. Cole is deeply grateful for his parents and his sister, who supported him every step of the way. They drove him to camps all over the country, invested countless hours, and made sure he had every opportunity to succeed. Cole often says that without their commitment, sacrifice, and belief in him, he wouldn’t be where he is today.
The true foundation of his football journey came from his father, who coached him in peewee football and spent years teaching him the fundamentals. Those early lessons — in technique, discipline, and doing things the right way — built the mindset and work ethic that continue to define Cole as both a quarterback and a competitor.
“As a former NFL player with 5 years of professional experience and a 4-time letter winner and team captain at Michigan State University, I was fortunate to serve as a head coach for 5 years. I had the privilege of coaching Cole for 4 seasons, watching him develop through hard work and dedication into earning an NCAA Division I football scholarship at a Power 4 conference school and now playing football at the professional level."
—Jehuu Caulcrick, Former NFL RB & Michigan State University RB
