NFL analyst's Devin Neal comparison proves just how good the Kansas football RB is

Kansas football has not sent much talent off to the NFL in recent years, but things are changing with HC Lance Leipold at the helm. The Jayhawks recently had Dominick Puni and Austin Booker taken in the 2024 draft. Heading into next season, running back Devin Neal is a hot commodity amongst draft scouts.

The senior tailback could have gone pro after his junior campaign, but he decided to exercise his final year of eligibility to stay in Lawrence. With another impressive season, Neal could continue to boost his stock and potentially hear his name called during Day 2 of the draft. Senior draft analyst at The Draft Network, Damian Parson, praised Neal in a recent social media post and compared him to one of the game's best RBs in the past decade.

Draft analyst compares Devin Neal to NFL superstar running back

Parson said he had been watching Neal's game film and saw striking similarities to five-time Pro Bowl RB Alvin Kamara. Considering he has been one of the most consistent offensive players in the league since his rookie year, that is a comparison that Neal will take any day.

Neal might not have the receiving ability that Kamara possesses — he has been one of the best pass-catching backs every season — but the two players have similar running styles. Parson noted the tempo, burst, and light feet that the Jayhawks' RB displays are parallel to how Kamara runs.

Coming off a 1,280-yard season in which he ran for 16 TDs on 6.3 yards per carry, the Lawrence native can cement himself as a top-5 runner in the 2025 draft class if he repeats his strong year. He is a nightmare for opposing defenses to plan against. Several outlets have listed him among the best in the country at his position.

It is too early to tell where Neal will land in next year's draft. However, Kansas football fans assume that he'll be one of the highest-picked Jayhawks in recent history when the time comes.