Atlanta Falcons First-Round Pick Keanu Neal Announces Retirement
After an eight-season NFL career, former Atlanta Falcons first-round pick Keanu Neal has bid farewell to the game. Neal, who also donned the uniforms of the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Pittsburgh Steelers, shared his retirement decision via an emotional Instagram post.
"God has blessed my family and I in so many ways," Neal penned. "20 years ago, I started this journey. Today, I am retiring from the NFL. Gods’ timing is always the right timing."
Neal expressed his gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his football odyssey, stretching back two decades.
"Wanna give a big thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for drafting and giving me a chance to make an impact. To the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Bucs, and Pittsburgh Steelers.. Thank you for allowing me to continue my career with you. All top-notch organizations."
Neal extended his appreciation to the coaches and teammates who shaped his professional path.
"I am incredibly grateful for the coaches and teammates I had the privilege of working with along the way. Sumter County, South Sumter High, Wolfpack, University of Florida, my family and friends..THANK YOU! All the lessons learned through the game have helped mold me into who I am today. #Enforcer."
Neal’s departure from the NFL came after an injury-marred 2023 season with the Steelers, where he failed to pass a physical.
Upon entering the 2016 NFL Draft, Neal stood as a highly coveted prospect after excelling for the University of Florida Gators. The Falcons selected him with the 17th overall pick.
Neal made an instant impact in his rookie campaign, amassing 106 tackles, five forced fumbles, and eight passes defended across 14 games. His performance culminated in a Pro Bowl selection the following year, during which he recorded 116 tackles, one interception, six passes defended, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
However, injuries derailed Neal’s progress in subsequent seasons. A torn ACL sidelined him for the 2018 campaign, while a torn Achilles ended his 2019 season prematurely.
The Falcons exercised Neal’s fifth-year option, giving him an opportunity to prove his worth in a contract year. He responded with 100 tackles, nine for loss, and an interception, earning him a one-year, $5 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys.
Reuniting with his former head coach Dan Quinn, Neal transitioned to the linebacker position. He registered 72 tackles in 14 games for the Cowboys.
In 2022, Neal signed a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, returning to the strong safety position. He started eight games out of his 17 appearances, compiling 63 tackles, one interception, and four passes defended.
Neal’s final NFL stop was with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023. However, he spent much of the season on injured reserve, limiting him to just six games.
Throughout his career, Neal amassed 523 tackles, 2.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, and 22 passes defended.
Neal’s retirement marks the end of a chapter in his life, but his legacy as a fierce and talented player will undoubtedly endure.
