Devin Neal is about as beloved a former Kansas football player as there is. He sits atop the school’s record book for rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. He first came to Kansas with a belief he could help turn around a dismal program, and he did just that.
Last spring, Neal was selected in the 6th round of the 2025 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. It seemed like a good situation for him, as he could learn from the Saints' talented starting running back, Alvin Kamara.
Neal competed with Kendre Miller for the primary backup role, but lost out during the preseason. In his first game, he did get two carries for nine yards, but didn’t get any snaps in the second game. He was inactive for the next three games, then didn’t get a snap in the Saints’ second game.
Former Kansas football star Devin Neal can make an impact for the New Orleans Saints
In game seven, Miller sustained a torn ACL and is now out for the year. Neal saw a slight increase in his snaps after the injury, getting 13 percent, his highest to date. He carried the ball once for a yard.
Last week, Neal finally got his opportunity to see significant playing time in week eight. He played in 46 percent of the Saints’ snaps. He didn’t see in carries, but he did catch three passes for 11 yards.
The Saints are not a good team, and their offensive line struggles to hold back pass rushes. Neal played quite a bit in the second half, helping to block. He helped chip here and there and picked up blitzes on other plays.
It is only a matter of time before the Saints start using him more in their offense. Kamara sustained an injury to his leg in the first half, though he continued to play. If Kamara’s injury is more serious, or if he has to reduce his workload over the next few weeks, Neal should be the one to take up the slack.
Kansas fans have no doubts that Neal can contribute positively to the Saints. Once he is given more to do on offense, he is sure to take advantage of the extra opportunities. Neal deserves to be successful in the NFL. He deserves whatever good things come his way.
Make sure to bookmark Through the Phog and follow us on X and Facebook with the username @Throughthephog