Analysis By Lance Zierlein, NFL Analyst

Draft Projection: Rounds 5-6

Overview
Workload runner with NFL size and 4 years of steady production to help elevate the program. Neal runs with a nice blend of patience and decisiveness to choose the right lanes and maximize each carry. He lacks top-end burst and speed, which will shrink the field for him, but he’s a fall-forward runner with good contact balance and a nose for short-yardage conversions. He has good instincts and soft hands in space and can help as a leak-out or swing-pass option. His blue-collar approach isn’t exciting but it is effective and Neal has the ability to develop into a backup three-down back.

Strengths
Runs behind his blocks while maintaining decisiveness.
Keeps the run on track and won’t deviate unnecessarily.
Plays with synced-up eyes and feet for sudden transitions.
Prioritizes ball security and has a low fumble rate.
Pushes through initial contact and falls forward for yardage.
Converts short-yardage carries with downhill mentality and forward lean.
Capable receiver out of the backfield with smooth hands.

Weaknesses
Average early burst to keep defenses from crowding his runs.
Takes time to gather feet and cut on a hard flow wide.
Lacks creativity to find alternate pathways when needed.
Average “make-you-miss” after the catch in space.
Needs better strain and finish to keep his quarterback protected.

Sources Tell Us

“He’s got size, instincts, production – it’s all there in one package. He’s going to be a good pro.” – NFC scouting director