Player Card

Fantasy Player Profile Keanu Neal

  • Keanu Neal
  • DB #31
  • Keanu
    Neal
  • AActive
  • Manager: FA
  •  
@HOU: #6 vs opposing DB - 23.83 FPA
Bye Week6Rank97% Rostered-% Change-WK 3 Pts3.00WK 4 Proj. Pts4.09
2023 Fantasy Stats
   Fantasy
WkOppResultsPts
1SF
Loss, 7-30
3.50
2CLE
Win, 26-22
6.00
3@LV
Win, 23-18
3.00
4@HOU
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
5BAL
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
6Bye  0.00
7@LA
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
0.00
8JAX
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
9TEN
Thu 5:15 pmGet Tickets
0.00
10GB
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
11@CLE
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
12@CIN
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
13ARI
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
0.00
14NE
Thu 5:15 pmGet Tickets
0.00
15@IND
TBDGet Tickets
0.00
16CIN
Sat 1:30 pmGet Tickets
0.00
17@SEA
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
0.00
18@BAL
TBDGet Tickets
0.00
2023 Fantasy Stats
  TacklesTurnoverFantasy
WkOppTotSckIntFrc FumFum RecPts
1SF,
L 7-30
2----3.50
2CLE,
W 26-22
4----6.00
3@LV,
W 23-18
2----3.00
4@HOU,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
5BAL,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
6Bye-----0.00
7@LA,
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
8JAX,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
9TEN,
Thu 5:15 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
10GB,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
11@CLE,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
12@CIN,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
13ARI,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
14NE,
Thu 5:15 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
15@IND,
TBDGet Tickets
-----0.00
16CIN,
Sat 1:30 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
17@SEA,
Sun 1:05 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
18@BAL,
TBDGet Tickets
-----0.00
  • 13.50
  • 26.00
  • 33.00
  • 4
Fantasy Points
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6 Bye
  7. 7
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  11. 11
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News

  • Five tackles in team debut

    Neal recorded five tackles (two solo) in Sunday's 30-7 loss to the 49ers.

    Analysis: Neal signed with the Steelers in the offseason and he had productive debut with the team considering he only played 48 percent of the defensive snaps. His workload will likely increase as the season goes on, therefore his production will go up as well.

    Published: Tue, Sep 12 at 8:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finding role with Pittsburgh

    Neal is expected to be a significant and versatile piece of the Steelers defense this season, Joe Rutter of TribLive.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal signed a two-year deal with Pittsburgh in March after spending last season on the Buccaneers. The veteran safety has spent time all over the field on defense in practice, seeing snaps at strong safety, while also as a third safety playing more in the box. His physical presence and versatility should lead to a significant role in Steelers' secondary this season.

    Published: Thu, Jun 15 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially signs with Steelers

    The Steelers signed Neal (hip) to a two-year contract Thursday, Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston reports.

    Analysis: As expected, Neal will join Pittsburgh in 2023 where he'll pursue his eighth year of professional ball. Across the last two seasons as a member of both the Cowboys and Buccaneers, the 2017 Pro-Bowler has more or less switched off between being a starter as well as a rotational secondary piece. Neal is now in line to compete with Damontae Kazee throughout the offseason for an opportunity to start next to fellow safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.

    Published: Thu, Mar 30 at 3:38pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely moving to Pittsburgh

    Neal (hip) is expected to sign with the Steelers, Chris Halicke of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal, a 2016 first-round pick and Pro-Bowler, appears as if he'll pursue his eighth campaign in the NFL as a member of the Steelers. The 27-year-old spent the first five years of his career in Atlanta before suiting up for the Cowboys in 2021 and eventually for the Buccaneers in 2022. Across 17 appearances last season, Neal amassed 63 tackles, four passes defensed and one interception.

    Published: Thu, Mar 30 at 3:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play against Dallas

    Neal (hip) has been ruled inactive prior to Monday's wild-card game against the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Neal sustained a hip injury during the regular-season finale against Atlanta. While he was able to practice in full during each session heading into the playoffs, the 27-year-old won't be able to suit up for this home postseason contest. As a result, Logan Ryan will serve as the Buccaneers' only available safety behind starters Antoine Winfield and Mike Edwards.

    Published: Mon, Jan 16 at 4:02pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to play vs. Dallas

    Neal (hip) is listed as questionable for Monday's game versus the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Neal was a full participant at practice Thursday, Friday and Saturday, so it would be surprising if he was absent from the wild-card round. If active, he'll probably rotate in at safety behind Antoine Winfield and Mike Edwards on Monday.

    Published: Sat, Jan 14 at 3:25pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Full participant Thursday

    Neal (hip) was a full participant during practice Thursday.

    Analysis: Neal exited with a hip injury during the regular-season finale against Atlanta. It's unclear if the 27-year-old ever returned to this contest, though it doesn't appear this issue will limit him heading into the start of the playoffs. Neal has served a rotational role at safety for the Buccaneers this season, and he'll likely reprise this spot behind Antoine Winfield and Mike Edwards during Monday's wild-card matchup against the Cowboys.

    Published: Thu, Jan 12 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Exits with injury Sunday

    Neal (hip) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Falcons.

    Analysis: Neal picked up a hip injury at some point during Sunday's regular-season finale, though the nature and severity of this issue are unclear. With Mike Edwards (hamstring) and Logan Ryan (knee) both already inactive, it's unclear who will step in alongside starting strong safety Antoine Winfield for the time being.

    Published: Sun, Jan 8 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Good to go for Week 16

    Neal (toe) is active for Sunday's matchup against the Cardinals, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal was considered questionable due to a toe injury that sidelined him for most of Week 16 prep, but the veteran defensive back will ultimately be active. Antoine Winfield (ankle) and Mike Edwards (hamstring) are also available after being listed as questionable, so Tampa Bay's secondary will be close to full strength.

    Published: Sun, Dec 25 at 4:13pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable with toe injury

    Neal is questionable for Sunday's matchup against Arizona due to a toe injury.

    Analysis: Neal didn't practice Wednesday due to the toe injury but logged limited sessions Thursday and Friday. Antoine Winfield (ankle) and Mike Edwards (hamstring) are also questionable, so it's currently unclear who'll start at safety for Tampa Bay on Sunday.

    Published: Fri, Dec 23 at 1:49pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Solid performance in Week 14

    Neal totaled six tackles (three solo), including one for loss, during the Buccaneers' 35-7 loss to the 49ers in Week 14.

    Analysis: Neal finished third on the team in tackles while once again drawing a start in Mike Edwards' (hamstring) second straight absence. Neal has logged between 55 and 74 snaps in five of his last six contests, totaling between five and 10 tackles. Neal would be set for yet another run with the first unit if Edwards remains out for Sunday's interconference home showdown against the Bengals.

    Published: Thu, Dec 15 at 12:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Huge pass breakup in win

    Neal recorded five solo tackles and a pass defended in Monday's 17-16 win against the Saints.

    Analysis: Neal once again stepped up for injured starting safety Antoine Winfield (concussion). While he only finished with a pedestrian five tackles, the 27-year-old flew in to break up a would-be third-down conversion on a pass to Taysom Hill. The Saints' ensuing punt allowed just enough time for quarterback Tom Brady to lead Tampa Bay's offense on a 63-yard game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter. Neal has now logged 51 tackles, a half-sack and two passes defended over his first 12 games with…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 6 at 8:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another solid tackle tally

    Neal recorded eight tackles (four solo), including a half-sack, and was credited with two quarterback hits overall during the Buccaneers' 23-17 overtime loss to the Browns in Week 12.

    Analysis: Neal once again put together a strong tackle tally, recording the second-highest total for the afternoon on the Buccaneers while playing 80 percent of the snaps. The veteran safety has at least eight tackles in the last three games in which he's played on defense.

    Published: Thu, Dec 1 at 12:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Team-high tackle tally

    Neal recorded 10 tackles (six solo) in the Buccaneers' 16-13 win over the Rams on Sunday.

    Analysis: The veteran safety drew another start for Antoine Winfield (concussion) and parlayed the opportunity into a team- and season-high tackle total. Neal has 18 total stops over 129 snaps in the last two games while filling Winfield's strong safety role, but he could be back to serving in a rotational capacity if the latter returns as expected for the Week 10 clash against the Seahawks in Munich, Germany.

    Published: Mon, Nov 7 at 4:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Eight tackles in Week 8 loss

    Neal recorded eight tackles (four solo) during the Buccaneers' 27-22 loss to the Ravens in Week 8.

    Analysis: Neal logged 74 snaps and posted a season-high tackle total in the process. The veteran drew the start for Antoine Winfield with the latter missing the game due to a concussion, so Neal could be back to his rotational role for a Week 9 home showdown against the Rams.

    Published: Mon, Oct 31 at 9:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Full workload Week 6

    Neal compiled four tackles (three solo) while playing 100 percent of the defensive snaps during the Buccaneers' 20-18 loss to the Steelers in Week 6.

    Analysis: With Mike Edwards (elbow) sidelined, Neal drew the start at free safety and delivered a solid performance while playing alongside the highly active Antoine Winfield in the defensive backfield. With Edwards returning to full practice participation Wednesday, Neal projects to revert to the rotational role he'd been filling prior to Sunday, though Logan Ryan's (foot) ongoing absence should continue to ensure a healthy amount of snaps.

    Published: Thu, Oct 20 at 6:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Solid tackle tally in Week 4

    Neal compiled six tackles (all solo) and was credited with a quarterback hit during the Buccaneers' 41-31 loss to the Chiefs in Week 4.

    Analysis: The veteran had played just three snaps on defense all season coming into Sunday night's contest, but he logged 46 versus the Chiefs and made good use of them. Neal's boost in workload came as a result of an early exit for Logan Ryan (foot), and with the latter a non-participant to start the practice week Wednesday, it's possible Neal sees another expanded role in Week 5 against the Falcons.

    Published: Thu, Oct 6 at 8:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not listed on injury report

    Neal (undisclosed) isn't listed on Wednesday's injury report, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal sustained an undisclosed injury during a joint practice with the Titans and missed the final two preseason games. However, he's appeared to have cleared the issue and should be full go for Week 1. After spending most of last season as a linebacker in the Cowboys' defense, Neal has moved back to safety since joining the Buccaneers. The 2016 first-round pick has been a productive player in the NFL on multiple occasions, but he'll likely serve a depth role in Tampa Bay's loaded safety group,…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • May miss rest of preseason

    Neal sustained an undisclosed injury during Wednesday's joint practice with the Titans and is expected to miss the rest of the preseason, Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

    Analysis: After spending most of last season as a linebacker in the Dallas defense, Neal has moved back to safety since landing a contract with the Buccaneers in early April. It's a more familiar role for the seventh-year pro, as he worked at the position in each of his first five campaigns in Atlanta. Neal has three seasons with at least 100 tackles on his resume, but he also appeared in only four games between 2018 and 2019 due to health concerns. As a result, his new reality is somewhat worrisome as…read more

    Published: Wed, Aug 17 at 5:07pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Impressing Bowles in camp

    Neal, who signed with the Buccaneers in April and is transitioning back to his original position of safety, has stood out to head coach Todd Bowles thus far in training camp, Brianna Dix of the team's official site reports. "Keanu is nothing but a pro since he's come in," Bowles said. "He's dropped his weight, going from linebacker in Dallas to coming in now [as a safety]. We know how he is in the run game. The great thing was he understands the passing game, he understands the angles and his drops have been very good."

    Analysis: Neal played linebacker almost exclusively with the Cowboys last season after toiling at safety for his first six seasons while with the Falcons. The 2016 first-round pick has generated three 100-tackle efforts during the trio of campaigns in which he's played double-digit games, and while Neal may not get enough snaps in Tampa Bay's deep secondary to accomplish that feat again, the expectation is that Neal's size and cover skills will frequently play an integral role in neutralizing running…read more

    Published: Fri, Aug 12 at 11:31am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Joining Tampa

    Neal agreed to a contract Wednesday with the Buccaneers, who plan to use him at safety, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The 2016 first-round pick mostly played linebacker for Dallas last year, after a six-season run in Atlanta as a hard-hitting strong safety. A return to the secondary represents his best shot at IDP relevance, considering Neal had three 100-tackle season as a safety and managed a modest 72 in 14 games for Dallas last year. That said, the Bucs already have Antoine Winfield and Logan Ryan, potentially leaving Neal to come off the bench, in which case IDP value would require an injury in front of…read more

    Published: Wed, Apr 6 at 1:30pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out against 49ers

    Neal (chest) has been ruled out for Sunday's wild-card matchup against the 49ers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Neal was expected to be a game-time decision for the postseason opener as he deals with various injuries, but he was officially ruled out Friday. In his absence, Luke Gifford and Francis Bernard are candidates to see increased work against San Francisco.

    Published: Fri, Jan 14 at 5:10pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Looking like GTD

    Coach Mike McCarthy said Friday that the status of Neal (chest) will "come down to the wire" for Sunday's game against the 49ers, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal is dealing with a biceps strain, per McCarthy, though he was also listed with chest and elbow injuries earlier in the week. He was limited Wednesday, then missed practice entirely Thursday. Luke Gifford and Francis Bernard would be candidates for increased work if Neal can't go, but a final word on the status of Dallas' linebacker corps may not be disclosed until just before Sunday's wild-card matchup kicks off.

    Published: Fri, Jan 14 at 8:30am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • DNP on Thursday

    Neal (chest/elbow) did not participate at Thursday's practice, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: The linebacker was a limited participant for Wednesday's non-padded work, but he was unavailable for Thursday's regular practice. With the step back in participation, Neal's ability to play Sunday against the 49ers comes into greater question. His status at the Cowboys' practice Friday is worth monitoring and if he can't go for this weekend's wild-card matchup, Luke Gifford and Francis Bernard could be asked to play larger roles at linebacker.

    Published: Thu, Jan 13 at 4:16pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Limited practice Wednesday

    Neal (chest/elbow) was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal left the Cowboys' Week 18 win over the Eagles early with an arm injury, which is now understood to be both an elbow and chest injury. The linebacker's ability to practice in any capacity Wednesday bodes well for his chances to suit up for Sunday's wild-card contest versus the 49ers, though his status is worth monitoring in the coming days.

    Published: Wed, Jan 12 at 2:29pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to return

    Neal (arm) is questionable to return Saturday against the Eagles, David Helman of the Cowboys' official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal was playing with his left arm heavily wrapped, but he has exited the game and went to the locker room. The Cowboys' linebacker depth was thin going into the game and will be even thinner if Neal cannot return. Leighton Vander Esch and Luke Gifford are the only healthy linebackers left in the game for the Cowboys.

    Published: Sat, Jan 8 at 7:46pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Activated off reserve/COVID-19 list

    Neal was activated off of the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

    Analysis: The linebacker was inactive in Week 17 after testing positive for COVID-19 on Dec. 31, but he returned to the team Wednesday ahead of their regular season finale against the Eagles on Saturday. Neal's return could prove crucial for the Cowboys in Week 18, as fellow linebackers, Micah Parsons (illness) and Francis Bernard (illness) have been placed on the COVID list.

    Published: Wed, Jan 5 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tests positive for COVID-19

    The Cowboys placed Neal (illness) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Neal's placement on the COVID-19 list is the result of a positive test, marking the second time that he's tested positive for the virus this season. He's unvaccinated and therefore ineligible to play in Sunday's game against the Cardinals, as he must first complete a mandatory five-day quarantine before he can be activated (if asymptomatic). Luke Gifford could see an uptick in playing time in Neal's stead.

    Published: Fri, Dec 31 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Seven tackles in win

    Neal totaled seven tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 21-6 win over the Giants.

    Analysis: After relatively limited production early in the season, Neal has been an effective tackler for the Cowboys recently and tied for the team lead in the category Sunday. He now has at least five tackles in six of the last seven games and has recorded 45 tackles (25 solo) and a sack during that time.

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 9:22am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Season-high stops

    Neal had seven tackles (five solo) during Sunday's 19-9 loss to the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Neal played 100 percent of defensive snaps for the first time all season versus Kansas City, so it's unsurprising that he also managed his highest tackle total of the year. Now that he's evidently back to handling an every-down workload, Neal could be in the mix for fantasy consideration against the Raiders on Thanksgiving Day.

    Published: Tue, Nov 23 at 7:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Activated off COVID-19 list

    The Cowboys activated Neal (illness) off the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

    Analysis: As expected, Neal has returned to the team and will practice Wednesday after missing the previous two games due to COVID-19 protocols. The 26-year-old linebacker played 98 defensive snaps and recorded nine tackles over the first two games of the season, but it's unclear if he will garner a full workload immediately.

    Published: Wed, Oct 6 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice

    Neal (illness) will return to practice Wednesday, Jori Epstein of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Neal has missed the last two games after he tested positive for COVID-19, but he's expected to return for Sunday's matchup against the Giants. He'll to be limited in Wednesday's practice and will be monitored to determine his status. If the linebacker is back in action against the Giants, he should reclaim his starting role.

    Published: Wed, Oct 6 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected back this week

    Neal (illness) is expected to make his return from the reserve/COVID-19 list this week, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Neal has missed back-to-back weeks after testing positive for the virus. Leighton Vander Esch has played a sizeable role during his absence, but Neal is expected to take back his starting role when he returns. The 26-year-old linebacker played 98 defensive snaps and registered nine tackles through the first two weeks of the season.

    Published: Mon, Oct 4 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Out for second straight week

    Neal (illness) remains in COVID-19 protocols and will miss Sunday's contest against the Panthers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Neal tested positive for the virus ahead of Monday's matchup with the Eagles and may be out for multiple weeks. Leighton Vander Esch played a sizeable role in Neal's absence during Week 3 and will likely have a similar workload against the Panthers on Sunday.

    Published: Sat, Oct 2 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tests positive for COVID

    Neal has tested positive for COVID-19, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Neal had been placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday as a high-risk contact, so he had a chance to suit up Monday against the Eagles by testing out of COVID protocols. That's no longer an option with the test coming up positive, so the former safety turned linebacker won't return until Week 4 against Carolina at the earliest and could be out beyond that point.

    Published: Sat, Sep 25 at 8:42am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Considered high-risk contact

    Neal (undisclosed) was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday as a high-risk contact, not because he tested positive, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Neal could thus be eligible to return to team facilities in time for Monday night's divisional matchup against the Eagles, as long as he continues to return negative test results. The starting linebacker handled 77 defensive snaps in each of the Cowboys' first two games, and he has nine stops (six solo) and one tackle for a loss on the season.

    Published: Wed, Sep 22 at 12:36pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Placed on COVID list

    The Cowboys placed Neal (undisclosed) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

    Analysis: Neal's status for Monday night's divisional matchup against the Eagles is thus looking iffy, as he won't be eligible to play or attend team facilities until he fully clears the league's COVID protocols. Through the first two weeks of the season, while operating primarily as a linebacker for the first time in his career, Neal has racked up a total of nine tackles (six solo).

    Published: Wed, Sep 22 at 12:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Adjusting well to 'new' position

    Neal has looked good at linebacker to begin training camp, but defensive coordinator Dan Quinn suggested Friday the switch from safety wasn't actually a big adjustment for the 26-year-old, Jonny Auping of DallasCowboys.com reports.

    Analysis: The two were together in Atlanta, and Quinn noted he'd already moved Neal around a lot when he was his head coach. "He's played a number of the positions when he was in Atlanta," Quinn explained. "We just tricked him and didn't call him a linebacker. We said, 'You're a safety.' I never told him he was a linebacker, but he was a linebacker on 70 percent of the snaps." Neal reached triple-digit tackles in all three seasons for the Falcons in which he was mostly healthy, including 100 in 15 games…read more

    Published: Sat, Jul 31 at 7:05am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially moves to linebacker

    Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn announced Monday that Neal will play linebacker with the Cowboys, Zach Klein of WSB TV reports.

    Analysis: Neal is already listed as a linebacker on Dallas' official depth chart, confirming that he has a new primary position. The switch is a considerable blow to Neal's fantasy value in IDP formats, given the difference in positional scarcity between safeties and linebackers capable of racking up high tackle totals. It's possible that Neal's significant injury history, including a torn ACL in 2018 and a torn Achilles in 2019, have deprived him of the speed necessary to excel in the secondary.

    Published: Mon, May 3 at 12:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Will play safety, linebacker

    The Cowboys intend to deploy Neal at both safety and linebacker, Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

    Analysis: Neal's decision to sign a one-year, $5 million deal with the Cowboys allows him to reunite with defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. During their time together in Atlanta, Quinn occasionally utilized Neal in specialized packages, but it looks like the 25-year-old will see more consistent action at weak-side linebacker in Dallas. A positional switch away from safety would significantly lessen Neal's value in IDP formats, especially in dynasty leagues. On the other hand, Neal's value could get a…read more

    Published: Mon, Mar 22 at 11:15am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Moving to linebacker

    Neal is expected to move to weakside linebacker with the Cowboys, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The hard-hitting former safety recently signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Cowboys, joining a team that already has a pair of three-down linebackers in Jaylon Smith and Leighton Vander Esch (ankle). It's an odd fit at first glance, but there are a few different ways the Cowboys can make it work, including using Smith as a part-time edge rusher. Neal reached 100 tackles in each of his three healthy seasons with the Falcons, so it's hard to imagine a position switch benefiting his…read more

    Published: Mon, Mar 22 at 7:19am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Nets deal with Dallas

    Neal signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Cowboys on Saturday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The move means Neal reunites with defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. The Cowboys are evidently still in the market for additional help at safety, though the 25-year-old will certainly be a welcome boost. The 2016 first-round pick by the Falcons rebounded from consecutive season-ending neck injuries to record 100 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception in 15 games last season.

    Published: Sat, Mar 20 at 12:27pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Notches seven stops in finale

    Neal, who registered seven tackles (four solo) during Sunday's 44-27 loss to the Buccaneers, closed out the 2020 campaign with 100 tackles, nine tackles for loss, two pass deflections, a fumble recovery, an interception and a sack over 15 games.

    Analysis: Having suffered a torn ACL in September 2018 and subsequently a torn Achilles in September 2019, Neal had missed 28 of the Falcons' past 32 games entering this season. The 25-year-old enjoyed better fortune with just one game absence during 2020, sitting out a Week 4 loss to the Packers because of a hamstring injury. He posted 100-plus tackles for the third time in five pro campaigns in 2020, proving once again that he is a defensive force when capable of staying on the field. Having just…read more

    Published: Wed, Jan 6 at 8:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ready for Week 16

    Neal (ankle) does not appear on the injury report ahead of Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Even though Neal was listed as a limited participant in each practice the Falcons held this week due to an ankle issue, he's not in danger of sitting out this weekend's game.

    Published: Fri, Dec 25 at 10:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Nursing hamstring issue

    Neal (hamstring) was limited in Wednesday's practice, Will McFadden reports.

    Analysis: Neal will have two more opportunities to increase his practice reps ahead of Sunday's road game against the Chiefs. As long as he's able to continue handling at least limited activity, the standout safety should have a good shot at taking the field.

    Published: Wed, Dec 23 at 1:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Racks up seven tackles

    Neal notched seven tackles, including one tackle for loss, during Sunday's 31-27 loss to Tampa Bay.

    Analysis: Neal's 88 tackles stand behind only Foyesade Oluokun (104) and Deion Jones (94) among Falcons defenders this season, but the 2017 Pro Bowler remains with just one takeaway over his past 17 game appearances. The 25-year-old accumulated a gaudy eight forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception over his first two years in the NFL, but he possesses no INTs, no forced fumbles and only one recovery in 13 games this season.

    Published: Wed, Dec 23 at 5:57am by Rotowire.com
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  • Managing practice reps

    Neal (ankle) was a limited participant during Wednesday's practice, Will McFadden of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal has been a driving force in the secondary for the Falcons this season, including playing 90 percent of defensive snaps in last week's loss to the Saints. It's too early to panic over his chances to play in Week 14 against the Chargers, but he'll likely need to continue posting at least limited practice. If Neal were to suffer a setback, Jaylinn Hawkins would be the likely candidate to take over as the team's strong safety.

    Published: Wed, Dec 9 at 4:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads squad with eight tackles

    Neal finished with eight tackles (seven solo) in Sunday's loss to the Saints.

    Analysis: Neal was on the field for 67 plays in Week 11, resulting in a team-high eight tackles, his best mark since Week 7 against Detroit. Through nine contests in 2020, he's tallied 65 tackles (49 solo), one sack and one pass defensed.

    Published: Mon, Nov 23 at 9:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Another team-leading tackle count

    Neal registered seven total tackles and a pass deflection during Thursday's 25-17 win against the Panthers.

    Analysis: Neal is playing some of the best football of his career, as he has recorded a Pro Football Focus grade of 75 or better in back-to-back games for the first time since he joined the NFL in 2016. The Florida standout has paced the team in tackles for three consecutive weeks, and most paramount, he's staying healthy. Neal missed a combined 28 games between 2018 and 2019 because of a torn ACL and a torn Achilles suffered in consecutive Septembers, but he's suited up for seven of the Falcons' eight…read more

    Published: Sat, Oct 31 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gaudy stat line in Week 7 loss

    Neal tallied 11 tackles, including two tackles for loss and one sack during Sunday's 23-22 loss to the Lions.

    Analysis: The 2017 Pro Bowler may have been Atlanta's defensive MVP in a losing effort, as he paced the team in both tackles and tackles for loss while collecting one of the Falcons' two sacks of Matthew Stafford. Though Neal has continued to demonstrate his characteristic hard-hitting style, his effectiveness in coverage has been clearly lacking. Thus far in 2020, opponents are completing 90 percent of their passes when targeting Neal in coverage, throwing to an astronomical 13.8 yards-per-completion…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 25 at 11:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sheds injury tag

    Neal (hamstring) does not carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Vikings.

    Analysis: Neal put together three limited practice sessions this week, but it doesn't look like his availability was ever in serious question. The 25-year-old will draw his usual start at strong safety in Minnesota.

    Published: Fri, Oct 16 at 12:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still bothered by hamstring

    Neal (hamstring) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Will McFadden of the Falcons' official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal missed the Week 4 matchup against the Packers due to this hamstring injury but was able to shake it off and play Week 5 against the Panthers. The 25-year-old safety handled a full workload and recorded seven tackles, but he's back on the injury report Wednesday. This could be a lingering issue this season, but as long as he can stay on the field all week, Neal has a good shot at playing this Sunday against the Vikings.

    Published: Wed, Oct 14 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ready to retake field

    Neal (hamstring) does not carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal's hamstring injury forced him to miss a single contest (Monday's loss to the Packers), but the starting safety will now return to Atlanta's secondary in time to face Teddy Bridgewater and the Panthers. Fellow starting safety Ricardo Allen (elbow) will also retake the field, setting the stage for Atlanta's secondary to potentially log a much-needed bounceback performance.

    Published: Fri, Oct 9 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Starts week with limited practice

    Neal (hamstring) was limited in Wednesday's practice, Will McFadden of the Falcons' official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal is among a multitude of injured Falcons -- the team had seven limited participants and two non-participants Wednesday. He was unable to suit up in Week 4 after failing to practice all week, so practicing on a limited basis is a step in the right direction for Neal. The safety's practice participation as the week unfolds should help determine his status for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

    Published: Wed, Oct 7 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out for MNF

    Neal (hamstring) has been ruled out for Monday's game versus the Packers, Jason Butt of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

    Analysis: Neal has dealt with a plenty of injuries during his NFL career, as he played just four games between the 2018 and 2019 seasons. After watching practice from the sidelines all week, he'll predictably sit out Monday and look to get healthy for a divisional clash against the Panthers in Week 5. With Ricardo Allen (elbow) also out, expect rookie Jaylinn Hawkins and Sharrod Neasman to both see upticks in usage Monday.

    Published: Sat, Oct 3 at 3:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses another practice

    Neal (hamstring) sat out for a second consecutive practice session Friday, Jason Butt of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

    Analysis: Neal is tied with Deion Jones for a team-high 22 tackles through the first three weeks of the season, but the former Pro Bowler may now be facing his 29th missed game since the start of 2018. Having popped up on the injury report after fielding 83 percent of the defensive workload during a Week 3 loss to Chicago, Neal's potential absence would leave rookie Jaylinn Hawkins in line for increased reps at strong safety. There is still time, however, for Neal to make a practice appearance Saturday,…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 2 at 6:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nursing hamstring injury

    Neal (hamstring) did not practice Thursday, Will McFadden of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Neal is coming off back-to-back games with eight tackles, despite only having played roughly 80 percent of defensive snaps this season. The star safety will still have two more chances to up his level or practice activity ahead of Monday's game against the Packers.

    Published: Thu, Oct 1 at 4:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Nose for football evident

    Neal collected eight tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss, during Sunday's 30-26 loss to the Bears.

    Analysis: By tying Mykal Walker with a Falcons-high eight tackles Week 3, Neal has now been atop the team box score in that category for back-to-back games. That's an encouraging sign, given that Neal was only able to suit up for a combined four games between 2018 and 2019 due to ACL and Achilles injuries. If Neal is back at full speed and playing with no hesitation, that is a boost for an otherwise struggling Falcons secondary that ranks 31st against the pass through three weeks.

    Published: Mon, Sep 28 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Six solo tackles Sunday

    Neal recorded seven tackles (six solo) across 64 defensive snaps in Sunday's loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Neal is currently second on the team in tackles this season, trailing only Deion Jones. However, the 25-year-old safety is only playing in about 80 percent of the team's defensive snaps through the first two weeks of the season.

    Published: Mon, Sep 21 at 9:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Absent from injury report

    Neal (Achilles) was a full participant for Wednesday's practice, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal continued to manage the Achilles injury that he suffered in Week 3 of the 2019 season during training camp. The fact that the 2016 first-round pick was absent from the injury report is an extremely positive sign for his chances to suit up Week 1. Now appearing to be fully healthy, Neal is expected to handle a starting role at strong safety for the 2020 season.

    Published: Wed, Sep 9 at 4:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Injury issues still linger

    Coach Dan Quinn said Wednesday that Neal (Achilles) could still have some limitations during training camp, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal previously said earlier in the offseason that he was feeling like his old self again after recovering from the torn Achilles that he suffered in Week 3 of the 2019 season. The safety has already sustained a torn ACL and Achilles' tendon in his young career, so it's still unclear if he'll be able to play at a high level when he returns to game action. When healthy, the 25-year-old is one of the more prolific safeties in the league, surpassing 100 tackles in his first two full seasons in the…read more

    Published: Wed, Aug 12 at 4:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Feeling healthy finally

    Neal (Achilles) said Wednesday that he feels like his old self again, Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Neal suffered a torn ACL in Week 1 of 2018 and a torn Achilles in Week 3 of 2019. It isn't clear if his rehab process is complete, but the timing of the injury should allow him to get ready for the start of the upcoming season. The bigger question is whether the 2016 first-round pick will still be able to play at a high level, coming off devastating injuries in back-to-back seasons. The Falcons don't have much talent in the secondary, so they're likely counting on Neal to occupy a starting job…read more

    Published: Thu, Jun 18 at 9:22am by Rotowire.com
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  • Rehab on positive trajectory

    Coach Dan Quinn said that Neal (Achilles) is "exactly where he should be" in his rehab, Kelsey Conway of the Falcons' official site reports. "(Neal) is doing good," Quinn stated Monday. "We're excited for him, he's making great progress."

    Analysis: The 2017 Pro Bowl safety has suffered devastating early-season injuries over each of the past two years, including a torn ACL Week 1 of 2018 against the Eagles, as well as a torn Achilles during Atlanta's Week 3 loss to Indianapolis on Sept. 22. In total Neal has amassed 16 tackles in four combined appearances over the past two seasons, but he entered the league with back-to-back years of incredible production during 2016 and 2017, racking up 222 tackles, 14 pass deflections and eight forced…read more

    Published: Tue, Feb 25 at 4:43pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
More news and analysis available at NFL.com

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