Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Keanu Neal (Florida) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #17 by ATL

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Pre-Draft Analysis: Keanu Neal

College: Florida
Position: Safety
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 211 lbs

Overview

Keanu Neal was regarded as one of the top safety prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft. He showcased a combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability during his time at the University of Florida, making him a coveted asset for NFL teams looking to bolster their secondary.

Strengths

• Physicality: Neal is known for his aggressive playing style. He is not afraid to come up and support the run, delivering big hits that can change the momentum of a game.
• Versatility: He has the ability to play both strong safety and free safety positions, providing flexibility to defensive coordinators.
• Coverage Skills: Neal has demonstrated solid coverage abilities, with the agility to match up against tight ends and running backs in the passing game.
• Instincts: He possesses good football IQ, allowing him to read plays and react quickly, which is essential for a safety.

Weaknesses

• Injury History: Neal missed significant time during his college career due to injuries, which raised concerns about his durability at the next level.
• Overaggressiveness: His aggressive style can sometimes lead to missed tackles or being out of position, especially in pass coverage.
• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were games where his performance dipped, raising questions about his reliability.

Draft Projection

Keanu Neal was projected to be selected in the first or early second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. His combination of physical traits and skill set made him an attractive option for teams in need of a playmaking safety.

Conclusion

Keanu Neal was viewed as a high-upside prospect with the potential to become a cornerstone of an NFL defense. His ability to contribute in both run support and pass coverage made him a valuable addition for any team looking to enhance their secondary.