The 2025 NFL Draft brought the New Orleans Saints some high-level production already, with names like Kelvin Banks Jr. and Tyler Shough at the forefront of the offense in only their second seasons. They have also picked up a few additional starters in that class, with Quincy Riley, Danny Stutsman, and Jonas Sanker all getting primary reps at their respective positions.
However, their Day 3 selections were a bit hit or miss, with names like tight end Moliki Matavao, edge rusher Fadil Diggs, and running back Devin Neal yet to really make a substantiated impact. One of those three names will no longer be with the Saints, however, as Neal was recently let go with an injury settlement. With Saints running back Travis Etienne Jr. dealing with a hamstring
injury, some fans hoped Neal could re-sign with New Orleans once the terms of his settlement allowed it.
Instead, he lands with the Minnesota Vikings, who signed him as a depth option behind Aaron Jones Sr., alongside DeeJay Dallas, and rookies running backs Demond Claiborne and Max Bredeson. Underdog's Jordan Schultz was first to report the news.
Sources: The #Vikings are signing former #Saints RB Devin Neal to a contract.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) September 29, 2026
Just 23 years old and a 5th-round pick last year, Neal totaled 310 yards and 2 TDs as a rookie. He joins a Minnesota team that has been seeking RB depth. pic.twitter.com/Ouup84YB0i
With Jordan Mason still on injured reserve with a thumb fracture from two weeks ago, his timeline remains somewhat unclear, so finding a viable RB2 alongside Jones Sr. is a key priority. Claiborne only has three rush attempts for a yard, Dallas has three attempts for 10 yards, and Bredeson has not touched the ball as of yet in the run or receiving game.
Neal was a pretty solid part of the Saints offense in 2025, with Alvin Kamara only playing in 11 games with 131 attempts. Neal put up 57 rush attempts for 206 yards and two touchdowns, along with 17 receptions for 104 yards. It will be a good opportunity for the young back to find a landing spot and earn a substantial role alongside a quality veteran.
This article originally appeared on Saints Wire: Recently-cut Saints RB signs with one of their next opponents
