Siran Neal (Jacksonville St.) - 2018 NFL Draft Pick #154 by BUF
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Siran Neal - 2018 NFL Draft
Position: Cornerback / Safety
College: Jacksonville State
Overview
Siran Neal was a talented defensive back known for his versatility and playmaking ability. He was a key player for Jacksonville State, contributing to their strong defensive performances in college football.
Strengths
- Versatile Skill Set: Neal was capable of playing multiple positions in the secondary, including cornerback and safety, which made him a valuable asset for any defense.
- Physical Presence: He demonstrated excellent size and strength for a defensive back, allowing him to compete effectively against larger receivers and contribute in run support.
- Ball Skills: Neal showed good instincts and awareness, resulting in numerous pass breakups and interceptions during his college career.
- High Football IQ: His understanding of offensive schemes helped him anticipate plays and react quickly, making him a playmaker on the field.
Weaknesses
- Level of Competition: Playing at Jacksonville State, there were concerns about how well Neal would translate his skills to the NFL level, as he faced less competition than players from major college programs.
- Technique Improvement: While he had the physical tools, his technique needed refinement, particularly in his footwork and backpedal.
- Injury History: There were some concerns regarding his durability, as he had dealt with minor injuries during his college career.
Overall Assessment
Siran Neal was viewed as a project player with significant upside due to his physical attributes and versatility. Teams were intrigued by his potential to develop into a solid contributor in the secondary, especially in a hybrid role that utilized his skills effectively. While he might not have been a first-round pick, he was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the draft, with the potential to become a starter in the NFL with the right coaching and development.