On Sunday afternoon, former Kansas running back Devin Neal scored his first NFL touchdown.
After a legendary college career, the Lawrence native has spent his rookie season playing for the New Orleans Saints. Neal was named the starting running back after Saints star Alvin Kamara went down with an MCL injury during New Orleans’ November 23 contest against the Atlanta Falcons.
In his first full game as the Saints’ starting halfback on November 30, Neal recorded 14 carries for 47 rushing yards and added three receptions for 22 yards. The Saints eventually lost to the Miami Dolphins in a close 21–17 contest.
This past Sunday, Neal helped lead the Saints to an improbable victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the win, he not only scored his first NFL touchdown but also posted a career-high total yards. He carried the ball 19 times for 70 yards and a touchdown, while adding a 14-yard reception. Neal was the real deal for anyone clever enough to start him on their fantasy squad this week.
He’s led the New Orleans backfield as of late, appearing in more than 80% of the Saints’ offensive snaps during Alvin Kamara’s absence.
With four games remaining, Kamara will likely be healthy sometime before season’s end. However, with the Saints out of playoff contention, there is no real incentive or urgency for him to return. Though not confirmed, there’s a chance we could see Devin Neal lead the New Orleans backfield for the remainder of the season.
Kansas fans know what Neal is capable of, and if he can make the most of his opportunities like he did this past Sunday, we’ll be seeing his name in starting running-back conversations in no time.
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