Devin Neal

Career StatsD

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	YPC
Career		10	206	2	3.6
2025		10	206	2	3.6

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Saints struck gold with Devin Neal's four-year, $4.5M deal, landing what amounts to a developmental steal at the running back position. Paying just $1.1M annually for a rotational player with clear upside potential represents exceptional value in today's inflated market, earning an A- CVI that reflects smart roster building. The minimal $300K guarantee shows New Orleans structured this as a low-risk lottery ticket — they can evaluate Neal's growth without significant financial exposure while securing his services through his prime developmental years. This contract structure is particularly shrewd for a running back, as the position's short shelf life makes affordable, multi-year control invaluable for depth purposes. Neal's rotational status suggests he's already contributing meaningfully to the Saints' ground game, making this deal a textbook example of how to maximize value in the middle tier of the roster while maintaining roster flexibility.

Performance Analysis

Devin Neal earns a D for the Saints at running back, a rookie who has been finding his way in a New Orleans backfield that has been in transition. Neal has shown some burst and the ability to hit holes with authority, which are positive signs for a young back. His pass protection and receiving ability need work, which has limited his snap count. The Saints are developing their next generation of offensive players, and Neal is part of that project. He has the raw tools to be a contributor, but the complete package has not come together yet.

Current Sentiment

Devin Neal has carved out a solid B-grade reputation in his rookie season with the Saints, earning recognition as a promising developmental piece rather than an immediate game-changer. The media consistently frames Neal as an intriguing young talent with legitimate upside, highlighting his playmaking ability while acknowledging he's still proving his NFL sustainability. Coverage has been notably positive, focusing on his potential and the organization's confidence in his trajectory rather than dwelling on rookie growing pains. While he hasn't yet reached established starter status, the narrative around Neal positions him as a legitimate building block for New Orleans's future backfield. His modest rookie contract reflects his current role, but the consistently optimistic tone from both media and organizational sources suggests the Saints view him as more than just depth. Neal enters the 2026 offseason with genuine momentum, having established himself as a player worth watching as he continues his development.