Keanu Neal played five seasons in safety in Atlanta. The newly scorched Dallas Cowboy is not only relocating, but he will also have a new position.
NFL Network Insider, Ian Rapoport, reported that the Cowboys plan to change Neal to a sidebacker, according to informed sources about the situation.
A potential move was speculated before Neal agreed to a $ 5 million one-year contract with the Cowboys over the weekend.
Neal’s blunt style and ability to stand up against the race make switching to linebacker an intriguing move. Given that the Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator, Dan Quinn, never made this move in Atlanta, he adds additional interest to the change of position.
In the past few years, we have seen more security guards try to make a switch to the linebacker – in some schemes known as the ‘money’ supporter – for mixed results. Listed at 6 ft-1, 216 pounds, we’ll see if Neal can make a positive transition. If he becomes an impact linebacker, Neal will enter the open market in the next off-season for more options.
A Pro Bowl bouncer in 2017, Neal’s career was hit hard by injuries. He lost all but four 2018-2019 games. When in the field, however, he proved to be an accomplished performer. He has served at least 100 tackles in each season in which he has played at least 14 games.
With Neal set to become a linebacker, the question is what it means for Leighton Vander Esch and Jaylon Smith. LVE seems destined to patrol the environment. Smith could move on to the role of hurried LEO in the Quinn system, given his talent for rushing the passer.
However, Neal moving on to the linebacker offers Cowboys versatility at the intermediate level of defense, especially by updating the coverage.
The move means that Cowboys are still on the market looking for additional security help. Rapoport reported that the Cowboys are hosting agents Malik Hooker and Damontae Kazee. The latter also played under Quinn in Atlanta.