The Dallas Cowboys signed veteran safety Keanu Neal late last week, giving defensive coordinator Dan Quinn at least one player already familiar with his scheme.
Neal previously played with the Atlanta Falcons, spending the first five years of his NFL career with Quinn as his head coach.
According to reports, Neal inked a one-year deal worth $5 million. The entire amount included in the deal is believed to be guaranteed. Dallas confirmed the news on their social media.
Sources close to the organization indicate that the Cowboys could get creative with Neal. While the 25-year-old Neal played safety his entire career, Quinn is reportedly seriously considering lining him up as a weakside linebacker.
This might depend on other moves that Dallas makes in the free agency. They are currently pursuing several more safeties, including Damontae Kazee, who also played under Quinn in the past.
Keanu Neal entered the league in 2016 as the Falcons’ first-round pick. He had an encouraging start to his NFL journey, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his sophomore season, but struggled to remain healthy after.
Neal played only four games in 2018 and 2019 due to ACL and Achilles injuries before bouncing back last season. He finished 2020 with 100 tackles, one interception, and 1.0 sacks.
