The Washington Commanders misread their situation with rookie running back Kaytron Allen. General manager Adam Peters thought he could sneak him onto the practice squad as a strategic release late in a game week, but the Miami Dolphins claimed the sixth-round pick instead.
Allen will now look to make an impact elsewhere, and he won't lack motivation. Though disappointing, the Commanders have now filled the void with the reported signing of Devin Neal.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Commanders have signed Neal to the practice squad. It hasn't been the easiest start to his professional journey, but the dual-threat weapon has the talent if he can stay healthy.
Commanders give Devin Neal a chance after injury hit start to his NFL career
The New Orleans Saints drafted Neal in the sixth round last year. Coincidentally, Washington gave this selection to the NFC South club as part of its trade package to acquire Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
He made the squad, gaining 310 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Unfortunately, a hamstring injury ended Neal's campaign early.
The Saints weren't going to wait around, signing Travis Etienne Jr. from the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency to go alongside Alvin Kamara. Neal had a fight on his hands to make the team again, but more injury complications led to the player being waived.
He was briefly signed to the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad but didn't catch on. Now, he gets the chance to develop in Washington, though getting elevated to the active roster doesn't look likely anytime soon.
The Commanders have relied on Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White as their lead duo. Veteran returnee Austin Ekeler saw limited action against the New York Giants, but he can still help. And with Jeremy McNichols' 21-day return window opening last week, Washington needs only four.
Commanders clearly see something in Devin Neal, but staying healthy is crucial
If McNichols needs a little extra time, Neal could be introduced. But given the soft tissue injuries he's sustained throughout his NFL career so far, it's far from guaranteed.
It's an intriguing addition. There's no need to make more of it than that.
The Commanders needed an insurance policy with Allen no longer around. Even though Neal is no sure thing, Washington can bring him along gradually.
Neal was an exceptional college performer at Kansas, accumulating 4,343 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns over four seasons. He's flashed NFL promise when opportunities come his way, but staying on the field remains his biggest stumbling block.
Hopefully, a change of scene will do him the world of good. There is no pressure, but it's a chance to build confidence and gradually pick things up to a point where the Commanders might feel comfortable about throwing him into the fire.
If it doesn't work out, but at 23, Neal has a lot more of his story to tell.
But the need for stability cannot be overstated.
Add us as a preferred source on Google