Former Kansas football players garnered significant attention for their skills and performance during the 2024 NFL Draft and subsequent undrafted free agency signings. Offensive lineman Dominick Puni was chosen by the 49ers in the third round, while Austin Booker was drafted by the Bears in the fifth round. Additionally, four other players secured UDFA contracts immediately after the draft, with six more earning invitations to various team minicamps to compete for roster spots.
These developments, coupled with the team’s recent performance, indicate an improvement in player quality and coaching at Kansas.The spotlight now turns to hometown hero Devin Neal and his potential impact as a running back for the Kansas Jayhawks in 2024. Pro Football Focus recognizes the depth of talent in the upcoming draft’s running back class but places Neal among the elite, ranking him third overall.
Next years draft class is LOADED at Running Back🤯 pic.twitter.com/SnaUV5mqMw
— PFF College (@PFF_College) May 1, 2024
High Expectations for Devin Neal
The high praise from Pro Football Focus for Devin Neal certainly sets very high expectations for the Kansas Jayhawks running back. However, this is a welcome development, as the program has lacked high expectations for a long time. The team and its fans will be eager to see Neal live up to the hype.
Devin Neal’s Impressive Career
Neal, a Lawrence native, has been incredibly productive during his first three years at Kansas. In 37 games, he has amassed 3,007 rushing yards, 33 rushing touchdowns, 457 receiving yards, and 3 receiving touchdowns. He has averaged an impressive 5.7 yards per carry and 8.6 yards per reception.Neal has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in both his sophomore and junior seasons, while maintaining an average of over 6.0 yards per carry. He has also recorded 12 100-yard rushing games, including one 224-yard performance. This production has been achieved while sharing carries with other talented running backs on the Kansas roster.
Physical Attributes
At 5-foot-11 and 208 pounds, Neal already has a decent size and should be able to add some additional weight going forward. This physical profile, combined with his proven production, suggests he has the tools to continue his success as a senior and potentially exceed his previous achievements.If Neal can match or exceed his career-long success as a senior, the sky will be the limit for both him and the Kansas Jayhawks program. The high expectations are a testament to the progress the team has made, and Neal will have the opportunity to cement his legacy as a standout player for the Jayhawks.
Anticipation for Devin Neal and the Kansas Jayhawks in 2024
Fans are eagerly anticipating Devin Neal and the Kansas Jayhawks’ performance in 2024. The team aims to capitalize on its recent successes and Neal is expected to lead the charge as they strive to compete not only within the restructured Big 12 but also on a national level.
Neal has the potential to translate a highly productive senior season into a prominent draft position and a successful NFL career once his college days are over. There is widespread excitement to witness Neal and the Jayhawks in action in 2024, with anticipation running high for their upcoming season.
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