Kansas star running back Devin Neal has made the decision to return for the 2024 season, according to sources familiar with the matter. Neal, who garnered second-team All-Big 12 honors this season after an impressive performance, had been contemplating a move to the NFL.
With Neal’s return, Kansas is set to have a formidable offensive lineup for the 2024 season, bolstered by the presence of star quarterback Jalon Daniels. The Jayhawks are poised to retain eight out of their 11 offensive starters, including all three starting wide receivers, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 next year.
Neal’s recent seasons have been nothing short of spectacular, with back-to-back 1,000+ yard rushing seasons and an impressive 6.6 yards per carry in 2023, topping all Big 12 rushers with over 100 carries. He’s not just a ground threat, as he also made 24 receptions for 214 yards, solidifying his status as one of the most productive running backs in college football.
A native of Lawrence, Neal has played a pivotal role in bringing national attention back to Kansas under the leadership of Coach Lance Leipold.
“He’s a local guy, and it speaks to his commitment to the community,” said a source close to Kansas. “When he signed on, he made it his mission to elevate Kansas football, and this is another step in that journey.”
Kansas has seen a resurgence in recent years, achieving its highest ranking in a decade, reaching consecutive bowl games, and securing a 49-36 victory over UNLV in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl this season, giving them their most wins since their memorable 2007 Orange Bowl victory.
During his three-year tenure at Kansas, Neal has amassed 3,077 rushing yards and 33 rushing touchdowns, currently ranking fourth in school history for rushing yards and third in rushing touchdowns. With another strong season, he’s on track to surpass June Henley as the program’s most decorated tailback, aiming to claim the top spot in both rushing yards and touchdowns.