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Devin Neal: 2025 NFL Draft Prospect Profile





2025 Combine Stats


40-Yard Dash: 4.58s


10-yard Split: 1.59s


Vertical: 37.5”


Broad Jump: 10’ 4”



DEVIN NEAL—SMOOTH, TOUGH, EXPLOSIVE, AND BUILT TO HANDLE THE LOAD FROM DAY ONE.



This dude doesn’t need gimmicks—he just gets it DONE. Devin Neal is one of the most polished, efficient, and consistent backs in the draft—and he’s been putting in work since Day One at Kansas. Vision? Dialed in. Burst? Instant. Contact balance? NASTY.



He’s a north-south runner with natural instincts and enough shake to make defenders whiff in space, but don’t be fooled—when it’s time to lower the pads, he finishes runs with attitude. He’s that rare blend of compact power and slick movement, with the versatility to fit into any scheme and any role.



Outside zone? He’ll hit the edge and turn it upfield. Inside gap? He’s squeezing through creases and dragging bodies. Need him on third down? He’s got soft hands and the IQ to pick up blitzes. Devin Neal isn’t just a ball-carrier—he’s a backfield weapon with true three-down value.



And the best part? He’s got that quiet killer mindset. No flash, no nonsense—just a hard-hat mentality, all-purpose production, and a game that’s tailor-made for the NFL grind.



Devin Neal is a plug-and-play pro with feature back upside, a high floor, and a ceiling that’s still rising. He’s the kind of back who gets stronger as the game goes on and eats in the fourth quarter.



Rock solid. Pro ready. And ready to make noise from the jump. Devin Neal is the real deal—and he’s coming for carries, touches, and end zones.



Strengths:


Vision and Patience: Neal exhibits exceptional field vision, allowing him to identify and exploit running lanes effectively. His patience enables him to wait for blocks to develop, enhancing his ability to gain substantial yardage.



Agility and Burst: He possesses quick feet and a notable burst, facilitating sharp cuts and rapid acceleration through gaps. This agility makes him a formidable open-field runner.



Receiving Ability: Neal is a reliable option in the passing game, showcasing soft hands and the capability to run precise routes out of the backfield. This versatility adds a valuable dimension to his offensive repertoire.



Weaknesses:


Pass Protection: While proficient as a runner and receiver, Neal's pass-blocking skills require improvement to meet NFL standards. Enhancing his technique and awareness in this area will be crucial for his transition to the professional level.



Play Strength: At 215 pounds, Neal may face challenges in short-yardage situations against more robust NFL defenders. Developing greater lower-body strength could aid in breaking tackles and gaining tough yards.



Ideal Team Fits:


Teams employing zone-based running schemes that capitalize on a back's vision and cutback ability would find Neal to be a valuable asset. Franchises like the San Francisco 49ers or the Miami Dolphins, known for their zone-blocking schemes, could effectively integrate Neal into their offensive systems.



Player Comparison:


Neal's playing style and physical attributes draw comparisons to running backs like Aaron Jones of the Green Bay Packers. Both players exhibit a harmonious blend of vision, agility, and receiving prowess, making them dual-threats in both the running and passing games.



Summary:


Devin Neal offers a compelling combination of vision, agility, and versatility, making him a promising prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. Addressing areas such as pass protection and play strength will be pivotal for his success at the professional level. With the right development and system fit, Neal has the potential to become a dynamic contributor to an NFL offense.



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