Veteran defensive back Keanu Neal has called it a career, exiting the NFL after eight seasons from 2016 to 2023. The former safety didn’t play in 2024 and has decided to pursue bigger and better things in his life. Neal announced his retirement on Sunday afternoon, stating, “20 years ago I started this journey. Today, I am retiring from the NFL,” in an Instagram post.
NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport shared the news of Neal’s retirement on Twitter, highlighting his achievements as a first-round safety and Pro Bowler.
Former first-round safety and Pro Bowler Keanu Neal announces his retirement. pic.twitter.com/JdOzD7j8C7
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 23, 2025
Neal excelled in college at the University of Florida, where he was drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Falcons with the 17th overall pick in 2016. He made an immediate impact on a defense that reached the Super Bowl that season, although Falcons fans and Neal himself might prefer to forget the outcome. After four more seasons with Atlanta, he reunited with coach Dan Quinn in Dallas, playing just one season before moving to Tampa Bay in 2022 and then to Pittsburgh in 2023. Neal did not participate in the 2024 NFL season after his time with the Steelers.
Best of luck to Neal as he embarks on his life after the NFL.
