Raiders Add Former Giants First-Rounders Evan Neal, Azeez Ojulari to Practice Squad

As the 2026 NFL season kicks off, the Las Vegas Raiders are making strategic moves to bolster their depth. On Thursday, September 3, the Raiders announced the signing of two former New York Giants players—offensive lineman Evan Neal and edge rusher Azeez Ojulari—to their practice squad. The additions, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, come just days after both players were waived during the league-wide roster cutdown to 53 players.

A Fresh Start in Sin City

For Evan Neal, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, this marks a critical opportunity to revive a career that has yet to meet expectations. Neal started 27 of 29 games for the Giants but was released after a turbulent tenure that saw him struggle with consistency and injuries. The Giants even attempted to transition him from right tackle to guard last season, though he never saw regular-season action at the position. Now, under the guidance of Raiders offensive line coach, Neal will look to rediscover the form that made him a top-10 selection out of Alabama.

Azeez Ojulari, a second-round pick by the Giants in 2021, burst onto the scene with 8.0 sacks as a rookie. However, a series of injuries limited him to just 11 games or fewer in each of the following three seasons. After signing with the Philadelphia Eagles as a free agent last year, Ojulari appeared in only three games before being released. The Raiders' practice squad provides a low-pressure environment for the 26-year-old to prove he can still be a disruptive force off the edge.

Raiders' Strategy and Veteran Depth

The Raiders, who are looking to compete in a loaded AFC West, have shown a willingness to take fliers on former high draft picks with untapped potential. By adding Neal and Ojulari to the practice squad, they secure developmental depth without committing to a full roster spot. If either player impresses during practice, they could be elevated to the active roster on game days.

"We see upside in both players," a Raiders source told Vulius Sports. "Our coaching staff believes they can help us now and in the future. It's a no-risk move with potential high reward."

For Neal, the transition to the Raiders' system could be a blessing. Las Vegas boasts a solid offensive line but lacks experienced depth at tackle, giving Neal a clear path to a roster promotion. Ojulari, meanwhile, joins a pass-rushing group that features Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce, but he could provide valuable rotational depth if he stays healthy.

As the Raiders prepare for their season opener, all eyes will be on these two former Giants to see if they can resurrect their careers in the desert. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will continue to monitor their progress throughout the season.