Keanu Neal, one-time Pro Bowler, announces retirement after 8 NFL seasons

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After eight seasons in the NFL, Atlanta Falcons first-round pick Keanu Neal is retiring. 

Neal, who also played for the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers, announced his retirement with an Instagram post. 

"God has blessed my family and I in so many ways," he began his caption. "20 years ago, I started this journey. Today, I am retiring from the NFL. Gods’ timing is always the right timing."

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Atlanta Falcons strong safety Keanu Neal (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

Neal went on to thank everyone along that journey he started 20 years ago. 

"Wanna give a big thank you to the Atlanta Falcons for drafting and giving me a chance to make an impact. To the Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Bucs, and Pittsburgh Steelers.. Thank you for allowing me to continue my career with you. All top notch organizations. 

"I am incredibly grateful for the coaches and teammates I had the privilege of working with along the way. Sumter County, South Sumter High, Wolfpack, University of Florida, my family and friends..THANK YOU! All the lessons learned through the game has helped mold me into who I am today. #Enforcer."

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Neal didn’t play the 2024 season after failing a physical with the Steelers, the team he played with in 2023. 

Neal was one of the top prospects heading into the 2016 NFL Draft after a successful college career at the University of Florida, leading to the Falcons taking him 17th overall that year. 

He made an immediate impact as a rookie, tallying 106 tackles, five forced fumbles