Giants Finalize Practice Squad With Ex-Bengals 4th-Rounder, Chiefs Super Bowl Champ

Posted Sep 3, 2026

New York, New York — The New York Giants finalized their practice squad Tuesday, adding four players to complete the group following the organization’s 53-man roster decisions.

The additions included offensive linemen Kingsley Eguakun and Darian Kinnard, wide receiver Charlie Jones, and defensive back Elijah Jones.

With those moves, New York’s practice squad reached 17 players, including Australian offensive lineman Jarrod Gray under the NFL’s international exemption.

The group gives the Giants additional depth across the offensive line, wide receiver room, secondary, and return game entering the regular season.

Charlie Jones immediately stands out because of his previous draft pedigree and potential value as a return specialist for the Giants.

The former Purdue standout was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Jones has developed into an experienced return option, recording two kickoff-return touchdowns and one punt-return touchdown across 33 professional games.

His career totals include 50 punt returns for 462 yards and 47 kickoff returns for 1,284 yards.

Those numbers could eventually create competition for veteran Braxton Berrios, who remains New York’s expected primary punt returner entering Week 1.

Berrios holds the clear advantage offensively, however, with 140 career receptions for 1,360 yards compared with Jones’ limited receiving production.

Jones has recorded only eight receptions for 69 yards during his three seasons in the NFL, making special teams his clearest opportunity.

The Giants also strengthened their interior offensive line by signing Kingsley Eguakun, who already owns valuable NFL starting experience.

Eguakun appeared in four games for Detroit last season and started two, giving New York additional insurance behind center John Michael Schmitz.

Darian Kinnard brings another layer of versatility after previously spending time with the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.

The former fifth-round selection can play both guard and tackle, while his 20 career games and five starts provide valuable experience.

Kinnard is also a two-time Super Bowl champion, having won championships during his NFL career with Kansas City and Philadelphia.

Elijah Jones gives the Giants another developmental option in the secondary after previously being selected in the third round by Arizona.

The former Boston College standout missed his entire rookie season because of injury before appearing in 10 games the following season.

New York will hope its coaching staff can help Jones regain the potential that made him a notable draft selection.

The additions reflect a practical approach from the Giants, emphasizing versatility, developmental upside, and reliable depth throughout the roster.

With the practice squad finalized, New York can now turn its attention toward preparing the expanded roster for the regular-season opener.

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