Keanu Neal Retires After Eight Impactful NFL Seasons

Keanu Neal, a former first-round draft pick of the Atlanta Falcons, has announced his retirement from the NFL after an impressive eight-year career. His decision marks the end of a significant chapter not just for him but also for the teams he played for during his time in the league.

Neal shared his retirement news with fans in an emotional post on Instagram. In his message, he reflected on his journey which began 20 years ago. He expressed gratitude, saying, “God has blessed my family and I in so many ways. Today, I am retiring from the NFL. God’s timing is always the right timing.”

In his post, Neal extended thanks to all those who supported him throughout his career, emphasizing the influence of his early days in Sumter County, Florida. He mentioned the pivotal role that the Atlanta Falcons played in launching his professional career, acknowledging, “Wanna give a big thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for drafting and giving me a chance to make an impact.”

Career Highlights in the NFL

Drafted as the 17th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Neal was considered one of the top prospects after a stellar college career at the University of Florida. He quickly made his mark in the league, totaling 106 tackles, five forced fumbles, and eight passes defended in his rookie season.

Neal’s breakout performance earned him a spot in the Pro Bowl during the 2017 season. He achieved a career-high of 116 combined tackles along with one interception, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. This successful year positioned him as one of the prominent safeties in the league.

Overcoming Injuries

However, Neal’s path was not without obstacles. During the 2018 season, he suffered a torn ACL in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. The following year proved equally challenging, as he experienced another significant injury—a torn Achilles—during a game against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 3.

The Atlanta Falcons recognized Neal’s talent and potential by exercising his fifth-year option, making 2020 a critical contract year for the safety. He returned to form, posting 100 tackles, nine of which were for loss, and recorded one interception, illustrating his resilience and commitment to the game.

Transitioning Teams and Positions

Neal’s career took a new direction in 2021 when he signed a one-year, $5 million “prove-it” contract with the Dallas Cowboys. This move reunited him with his former head coach, Dan Quinn, who had transitioned to the Cowboys as the defensive coordinator. Neal switched from his traditional safety position to that of a linebacker, showcasing his versatility on the field.

In his first season with Dallas, Neal played in 14 games, making 72 tackles. The following year, he signed a one-year deal worth $1.272 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, returning to strong safety. During his stint with the Bucs, he started in eight of the 17 games, accumulating 63 tackles, one interception, and four passes defended.

Final Season with the Steelers

Neal concluded his playing career with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023. Unfortunately, he faced setbacks again, as he was placed on injured reserve on November 18, preventing him from finishing the season. Throughout his career, Neal accumulated an impressive total of 523 combined tackles, 2.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, and 22 passes defended.

Reflecting on a Respected Career

The road has been filled with triumphs and challenges for Neal, whose journey through the NFL has inspired many. Whether he was making game-changing tackles or overcoming injuries, he demonstrated unwavering determination and grit. His appreciation for teammates, coaches, and supporters underlines his character, marking him as not only a skilled player but also a valued teammate.

In his retirement message, Neal highlighted the life lessons gained through football. He emphasized gratitude toward everyone who contributed to his journey, stating, “All the lessons learned through the game have helped mold me into who I am today.”

Looking Ahead

As he steps away from professional football, fans and analysts alike will remember Keanu Neal not only for his formidable skills on the field but also for his graciousness and humble demeanor off the field. His legacy as a player will continue to influence future generations of athletes aspiring to make their mark in the sport.

This retirement signifies the end of an era for Neal, but it also opens new opportunities for him beyond the gridiron. Football lovers worldwide will undoubtedly stay tuned to see where his journey leads him next.