Atlanta – Keanu Neal, the former NFL safety, has officially announced his retirement from football after a successful eight-season career. Neal shared the news via social media on Sunday, expressing his gratitude for the experiences he gained throughout his journey in the sport.
“God has blessed my family and I in so many ways. Particularly in the game of football,” Neal posted on Instagram. “20 years ago, I started this journey. Today, I am retiring from the NFL. God’s timing is always the right timing.” He went on to thank the teams that provided opportunities for him, specifically the Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Neal began his professional career in Atlanta after being drafted 17th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. His rookie season saw him start in 14 games and make 106 tackles. The following year marked the peak of his career, earning him a Pro Bowl selection after recording 116 tackles, three forced fumbles, and one interception during the 2017 season.
After spending five productive years with the Falcons, Neal played for the Cowboys, Buccaneers, and Steelers, often switching between safety and linebacker throughout his career. He finishes his NFL journey having made a total of 523 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and four interceptions in 89 games.
In league news, NFL Competition Committee co-chair Rich McKay revealed that discussions are ongoing regarding the potential relocation of touchback spots to the receiving team’s 35-yard line, as well as moving the kickoff line back by five yards. In other offseason updates, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is focusing on building relationships with teams ahead of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, while Texans wide receiver Robert Woods expressed his interest in sticking with Houston for his 13th season.
Furthermore, the Los Angeles Rams have given quarterback Matthew Stafford’s camp the green light to negotiate with other teams, and the Arizona Cardinals plan to be active in free agency following an 8-9 season.
As the offseason progresses, NFL teams are preparing for free agency and next season, looking to build stronger rosters and impactful players as they head into the upcoming year.
