The Las Vegas Raiders are facing a significant setback in their pass rush unit as rookie Keyron Crawford has been placed on season-ending injured reserve due to an ankle injury sustained during a preseason game. The injury occurred on August 27, 2026, when Crawford attempted to blitz San Francisco 49ers quarterback Adrian Martinez but was pushed down by offensive tackle Enrique Cruz Jr., resulting in an awkward fall that led to his removal from the game on a cart.
Crawford, who was selected by the Raiders in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the 67th overall pick, had a promising college career. He played two seasons at Arkansas State before transferring to Auburn, where he recorded 58 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks over 24 games. His absence leaves a notable gap in the Raiders' defensive strategy as they prepare for the upcoming season.
In response to Crawford's injury, the Raiders wasted no time in exploring potential replacements. On September 3, the team held tryouts for several notable pass rushers, including David Ojabo, Azeez Ojulari, and B.J. Ojulari. Each of these players brings a unique background and skill set, making them intriguing options for the Raiders' defensive line.
David Ojabo, a former second-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, has struggled to find his footing in the league, accumulating only 32 tackles and 4.5 sacks in his career. At 6'4" and 265 pounds, Ojabo possesses the physical attributes that could make him a valuable asset, but he is viewed as a developmental player who has yet to reach his potential.
Azeez Ojulari, on the other hand, has a more established track record. Drafted by the New York Giants in 2021, he recorded 107 tackles and 22 sacks during his four seasons in New York, before spending one year with the Philadelphia Eagles. His experience and production make him a strong candidate to bolster the Raiders' pass rush.
B.J. Ojulari, Azeez's younger brother, was a second-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in 2023. He had a solid rookie season with 40 tackles and four sacks but faced challenges in subsequent years, including missing the entire 2024 season due to injury. His recent performance includes just eight tackles and one sack in 2025, but he still has the potential to contribute significantly.
Regardless of whether the Raiders sign one of these pass rushers, they still have star defensive end Maxx Crosby on their roster. Crosby was recently ranked as the No. 25 player in the NFL for 2026 by ESPN. He is known for his exceptional ability to rush the passer as well as his prowess in stopping the run. In 2025, he led all edge rushers in run stops and has the most tackles for loss in franchise history.
Crosby has expressed his determination to lead the team and improve his game, emphasizing the importance of preparation and mindset. As the Raiders gear up for their Week 1 matchup against the Miami Dolphins, they will be counting on Crosby to anchor their defensive line in the absence of Crawford.
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