Keanu Neal, the formidable NFL safety, announced his retirement on Sunday after an impressive eight-season career. The 29-year-old’s journey began when the Atlanta Falcons selected him in the first round of the 2016 draft. Over the years, Neal became a significant presence on the field, appearing in 89 games and making 69 starts across four teams: the Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Neal's most notable season came in 2017 when he achieved a career-high 116 tackles and earned his sole Pro Bowl appearance. That year, he started all 16 games, showcasing his talent and determination. Unfortunately, Neal faced challenges with season-ending injuries in back-to-back years, suffering an ACL tear in 2018 and an Achilles injury in 2019. Despite these setbacks, he returned to the field persistently, spending five seasons with the Falcons before transitioning to the Dallas Cowboys in 2021.
With the Cowboys, Neal took on a new role, switching from safety to linebacker. This transition highlighted his adaptability and skill as a player. He later returned to his roots in the secondary, playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers during his final two seasons. In total, Neal finished his career with 523 tackles, four interceptions, and eight forced fumbles.
"All the lessons learned through the game has helped mold me into who I am today." – Keanu Neal
Neal's retirement announcement marks the end of a significant chapter, though his impact on the field remains undeniable. Released by the Steelers last March, Neal did not participate in the most recent NFL season. Nevertheless, his legacy is punctuated by his performance and resilience.
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