Elias Neal

Elias Neal's Biography

Elias Neal stands as an epitome of hard work, dedication, and determination in the field of American professional football. From humble beginnings in Memphis, Tennessee, born on September 11, 2001, Neal’s journey to becoming a linebacker for the esteemed Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL) is one to admire. His life in Tennessee, his flourishing college years playing for the Marshall Thundering Herd, to his rise in professional football, manifests a story of a promising athlete, continuously striving for greatness.

Growing up in Memphis, Elias was exposed to the thrills and challenges of football at an early age at White Station High School. Playing as a running back and linebacker in high school, he exhibited amazing prowess and agility, recording 750 rushing yards and 12 impressive touchdowns, supplemented with 95 tackles and two interceptions in his senior year alone. These achievements reflected his potential and marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey when he committed to playing college football for the Marshall Thundering Herd as a two-star prospect.

In his freshman year in 2019, young Elias appeared in all 13 games, demonstrating his capabilities as a backup linebacker and on special teams. Even in his debut year, he accumulated a respectable stat, finishing the season with 12 tackles and 0.5 tackles-for-loss (TFLs). But even with decent first-year stats, Neal knew that this was just the beginning for him.

By 2020, Elias Neal had grown significantly as a player and started in all 10 games that season. He exhibited an impeccable performance, recording 75 tackles, 5.0 TFLs, 1.5 sacks, and an interception, which earned him the honor of being named All-Conference USA’s honorable mention. The next season, in 2021, his tremendous form continued, and he was once again named the honorable mention of the conference. His performance included 97 tackles, seven TFLs, and 5.5 sacks, which earned him the rank of the second-best player on the team.

Neal continued to impress in 2022 with his impressive performance on the field. He was named honorable mention All-Sun Belt Conference (SBC) after leading his team with 98 tackles, 9.5 TFLs, and three sacks. Nascent footballer Elias then made a return in 2023 for the final season after the COVID-19 pandemic had granted all players an extra year of eligibility. His performance remained stellar, recording 93 tackles, 10.5 TFLs, and two sacks, crowning him Marshall’s 2023 leader in this department. In recognition of his outstanding skills, Elias was named a Group of Five All-American and made it to the third-team All-Sun Belt Conference selection.

Throughout his college career, Elias made a mark with impressive stats. This period saw him recording 375 tackles, 32.5 TFLs, 12 sacks, five interceptions, and five fumble recoveries. He had an impressive record that secured his place in the top 20 in school history for both total tackles and TFLs. These accomplishments led to his participation in the prestigious Hula Bowl all-star game taking place post the season.

Despite a highly successful college career, Elias went undrafted in the 2024 NFL draft. However, his unrelenting spirit and undeniable talent led him to sign with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent. His skills were sure to shine through, and he made the team’s initial 53-man roster for the 2024 season. His time at the Rams and participation in five games further proved his worth, successfully obtaining his place on the practice squad, even after being waived on October 21, 2024. The story of Elias Neal serves as a testament to his talent, determination, and resilience in the world of professional football.