After not playing in the 2024 season, safety Keanu Neal has decided to hang up his cleats from the game of football.
Neal announced Sunday on social media that he is retiring from the NFL after eight seasons.
"God has blessed my family and I in so many ways. Particularly in the game of football," Neal said on Instagram. "20 years ago, I started this journey. Today, I am retiring from the NFL. Gods' timing is always the right timing.
"Wanna give a big thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for drafting and giving me a chance to make an impact. To the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Bucs, and Pittsburgh Steelers.. Thank you for allowing me to continue my career with you. All top notch organizations. I am incredibly grateful for the coaches and teammates I had the privilege of working with along the way. Sumter County, South Sumter High, Wolfpack, University of Florida, my family and friends.. THANK YOU! All the lessons learned through the game has helped mold me into who I am today."
Neal's career began with Atlanta when the Falcons spent the 17th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. The Florida Gators product started his rookie campaign by starting in 14 games for the Falcons and recorded 106 tackles. The following season, Neal had his best season as he started in 16 games, recording 116 tackles, four tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and one interception. Neal earned his first and only Pro Bowl nod in 2017.
After spending five seasons in Atlanta, he made one-year stops with the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers. In 2021, Neal transitioned from playing safety and played linebacker for the Cowboys.
Neal, 29, ends his NFL career with 523 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 11 QB hits, eight forced fumbles, four interceptions and 2.5 sacks in 89 games.
