The Eagles officially beefed up their practice squad Thursday, bringing in former Giants first-round pick Evan Neal, along with running back Jaydon Blue and linebacker Anfernee Orji. These moves show a team desperate to snap out of a four-game losing streak and find some answers fast. Waiving tight end E.J. Jenkins also clears some space as Philly tries to regroup.
A New Role for a Former First-Rounder
Evan Neal’s arrival is probably the biggest news out of these practice squad additions. The guy was the seventh overall pick in the 2022 draft, making 27 starts at right tackle for the Giants in 29 regular-season appearances before they released him in August. Now, after a Wednesday tryout and hitting the practice field Thursday, the Eagles are listing him as a guard in their announcement. That’s huge. His development on the interior is absolutely worth watching, especially with all the significant personnel changes up front. Offensive line coach Chris Kuper has another body to evaluate, and frankly, they need all the help they can get.
Depth Returns as Backfield Injuries Pile Up
It is not just Neal. Running back Jaydon Blue is back in the fold after the Eagles waived him just Tuesday. He had been promoted to the active roster before Sunday’s tough loss to Carolina because injuries were absolutely decimating the backfield. His return is all about providing much-needed depth as we wait to see if Saquon Barkley can make a possible Monday night appearance against Dallas. Linebacker Anfernee Orji is also rejoining the organization after being released from the practice squad earlier this month. It feels like a revolving door, but when you are struggling, you try everything.
Jenkins Out as Philly Seeks a Turnaround
Tight end E.J. Jenkins’ departure is now official, and while he played in all six games this season, even making two starts, he did not record a single reception. Across 16 career regular-season appearances with the Eagles, he had only one catch for seven yards and a touchdown. The team needs more production than that. With these additions, Philadelphia is loading up on practice squad options as they brace themselves to host Dallas and try to end this painful four-game losing streak. Everything is on the line.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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