The New Orleans Saints have had the luxury of Taysom Hill’s versatility for the past nine years. He was an exceptional rusher, quality passer and reliable receiver throughout his tenure in the black and gold, but his impact was greatest in short-yardage situations and at the goal line. With his future uncertain, the Saints will now look towards another player to fill that role: Devin Neal.
The Saints drafted Neal in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He had an injury-riddled rookie campaign, but is fully healthy heading into the season. He won’t be the premier running back in Kellen Moore’s offense, maybe not even the second option, but he will play a valuable role in Hill’s absence.
It’s noteworthy that Hill could still return to the Saints. However, Mickey Loomis reported at a recent press conference that he currently doesn’t have a contract offer. He won’t be expensive, so it’s still possible. However, it’s tough to justify giving a 35-year-old (will be 36 during the season) who's coming off a torn ACL a roster spot.
Devin Neal will thrive as the short-yardage power running back.
The five-foot-11, 215-pound running back is powerful enough to gain tough, gritty yards. Additionally, he constantly falls forward, reaching for extra yards despite contact. This ability is severely underrated in running backs and can be the difference between a turnover and a touchdown.
Neal is the only option on the Saints roster for this role, regardless of his spot on the depth chart. Both Travis Etienne Jr. and Alvin Kamara will get carries over him. However, they are more explosive big play threats or best in space than than short-yardage backs. They don’t contain the needed power to consistently break the plane.Â
Because of this, don’t be surprised to see Devin Neal carve out a role in the Saints’ offense. His prowess in short-yardage situations and on the goal line will be valuable in the absence of Taysom Hill.
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