Julian Neal

The Player

Neal is a big corner with long arms and good—but not elite—top-end speed. He’s coming off of a breakout season in which he started 12 games for Arkansas after transferring from Fresno State. He gets his hands on receivers and can smother them with his size and length. In press coverage, he turns and runs and tracks the ball well. He flashes the ability to drive on the ball and jump routes in off coverage. He wraps up and limits production after the catch. He can match up with tight ends.  

He has an average burst. He matches up better with bigger receivers and has difficulty with smaller ones who can quickly change speed and direction. He runs well but can be beaten by receivers with track speed, especially when he doesn’t get his hands on them. He broke up a career-high 10 passes in 2025, his only season as a starter. He hits like a safety and jars the ball loose in zone looks. He reaches in with long arms and plays through the receiver’s hands when he’s in phase. He’s competitive in 50-50 and jump-ball situations. He drops some passes he should catch, but he has the potential to develop into a playmaker. He played receiver in high school and can track the ball like one. He has big hands and a wide catch radius and can come down with contested catches. 

He’s a tough, physical run defender who doesn’t miss many tackles and finished with a career-high 55 in 2025. He’s strong and long enough to fight off blocks. He has covered kickoffs and has the skill set to develop into an effective special teams player in the NFL.

The Draft

Neal is a mid-round prospect and he would be the first Arkansas defensive back drafted since 2022. 

The Projection

Neal is a strong candidate to start his career as a backup and special teams contributor, but he has the potential to develop into a starter. His frame, length, and speed make 2024 fifth-round pick Cam Hart a potential comp. Hart started 13 games and played 32 games during his first two seasons in the league.