EXCLUSIVE: Devin Neal ready for “dream” opportunity vs Bucs

By Ross Jackson

Before New Orleans Saints rookie running back Devin Neal spoke with the attending media during Wednesday’s locker room session, he spoke exclusively with LouisianaSports.Net. 

Throughout the conversation, it became clear that Neal is excited for the opportunity ahead of him as his snaps look to increase this weekend against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

“It’s definitely my dream,” Neal said of the opportunity ahead of him. “Not only did I get here, but now I have the opportunity to play. So it’s special, and obviously it’s my first one with an increased workload. I worked for this opportunity, I’m prepared ultimately, and I’m just ready to go at the end of the day.”

It may not be coming together the way anyone would have hoped, with fellow running back Kendre Miller going down with an ACL tear last week against the Chicago Bears. But Neal worked hard to stay ready so that he could answer the bell if the team needed to call him into action. Following the unfortunate turn of events, the team is indeed calling upon the Kansas all-time rusher. 

Neal already made waves last week after Miller exited with injury. While in the backfield, he was able to react and pick up a blitz just in time on a play that’s since picked up a lot of attention. Neal walked through the responsibilities on that play and what led to the big moment. 

What a block by Devin Neal pic.twitter.com/RyH7u2I5uE

— Saints Film Room (@SaintsFilmRoom) October 19, 2025

“If that (linebacker) would have rushed on the right side, that was my guy,” he said. “(The Bears) brought an interesting look where the line couldn’t get all the way out there. So technically, it was my guy but it wasn’t at the same time. But really, it’s just cleaning up.”

“Whatever I’ve got to do to protect (Spencer Rattler), I’m going to do it,” he said. 

Neal was supposed to run a route to the flats area if he wasn’t blocking, but even after the linebacker didn’t pressure, he decided to stay in a short while longer. The decision worked out for the best, as it opened up an opportunity for Rattler to get the ball out. 

What exactly Neal gets a chance to accomplish on Sunday against the Buccaneers remains to be seen, as does his role in totality. But whatever is asked of him, he’ll be ready to contribute. 

“I’m looking forward to going out there and just executing,” he said. “And being efficient, staying ahead of the chains and just playing football. I think that’s just the main key: not putting too much pressure on myself to make a home run play, this or that, but just to execute and do my job ultimately.”