Going into the 2025 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys know just how loaded this running back class is. Their back field is by no means solidified, either.
After seeing Rico Dowdle depart and signing veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, Dallas is going for more of the Band-Aid approach up to this point. But, that could all change if they take the right type of running back in the draft.
Enter: Kansas running back Devin Neal. A record-holder holding three 1,000-yard seasons during his college days, Neal comes in with a lot of experience and having offered a consistent showing, year after year, with the Jayhawks.
Would he be a fit with a team like Dallas? How about elsewhere? Let's dig in a little deeper.
Kansas RB Devin Neal 2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Notes
- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 213
- Holds all-time Kansas school record with 4,343 rushing yards and 49 rushing TD
Positives
- A decisive runner who stays the course and rarely backtracks
- Strong frame from top to bottom allows for often shedding tackles; excels in short yardage situations
- "One more yard" mentality as a runner
- Capable receiver out of the back field
If you're looking for that sexy style, Neal isn't going to be your cup of tea. However, if you're wanting a running back who will eat chunks of yardage the hard way, he's your guy. Neal will never claim to be the most athletic or someone with breakaway speed, but he's going to fight for every yard and make it difficult on defenders to bring him down.
Negatives
- Lacks top-end speed
- Doesn't offer much by way of moves in the open field to make defenders miss
- Takes a while to reach his rhythm; often won't reach top speed until after second level
Likely to be used best in a tandem at the pro level, Neal's skill set is handcuffed. Although he's good at what he specializes in, Neal isn't someone who can completely take over games. He's going to get you those tough yards and consistent 4-yard runs, but will very rarely give you those eye-popping type plays.
Devin Neal NFL Player Comparison: Zach Charbonnet
Almost identical in stature as Zach Charbonnet, Neal compares favorably to the current Seattle Seahawk. There is definitely an offense for his skill set and, at times, he might be able to handle a good amount of carries. But, it will still benefit an offense to have a quicker, change-of-pace back alongside Neal.
Devin Neal 2025 NFL Draft Player Grade: Round 4
Experts seem to be split on Neal with some labeling him as a late Round 3 type of prospect and others thinking he is best suited in later rounds. We'll put him as an early Day 3 player just to be safe, and quite frankly, any team that gets him in Round 4 should feel satisfied.
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