The Minnesota Vikings officially signed free agent running back Devin Neal on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. This move adds much-needed reinforcements to their backfield as the 3-0 Vikings navigate early-season injuries.
NFL insider Jordan Schultz first reported the transaction on social media. The 23-year-old running back joins Minnesota following a brief stint with the New Orleans Saints. Before signing Neal, the Vikings hosted nine free agents for workouts on Tuesday, ultimately choosing to add Neal and offensive lineman Dyson to the roster.
Addressing Running Back Depth Amid Injuries
Minnesota entered the 2026 campaign intending to lean heavily on Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason. However, depth has quickly become a concern. Mason suffered a fractured right thumb during Week 1 and landed on injured reserve. Meanwhile, starting running back Aaron Jones has been managing a lingering knee issue.
The Vikings have utilized reserve options such as DeeJay Dallas and rookie Demond Claiborne, but neither player has established a consistent role behind Jones. Head coach Kevin O’Connell and the front office hope Neal will help manage Jones’ workload while Mason remains sidelined.
Devin Neal’s Rookie Season and Background
Neal entered the NFL as a sixth-round draft pick (184th overall) out of Kansas in the 2025 NFL Draft, signing a four-year rookie contract with the Saints. During his rookie campaign in New Orleans, Neal appeared in 10 games with three starts. He recorded 57 carries for 206 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while adding 17 receptions for 104 yards.
An injury interrupted the tail end of his rookie season when he suffered a hamstring injury in Week 15. New Orleans placed Neal on injured reserve during final roster cuts before reaching an injury settlement on September 3, 2026, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Before his professional career, Neal established himself as a standout player at the University of Kansas. He left Lawrence as the program’s all-time leading rusher, breaking records for rushing yards (4,343), rushing touchdowns (49), scrimmage touchdowns, and games with 100 or more rushing yards.
What Lies Ahead for the Vikings Backfield
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing approximately 213 pounds, Neal profiles primarily as a between-the-tackles runner with receiving upside. He can immediately contribute on third downs or in emergency situations. Whether he will be active for Minnesota’s upcoming Week 4 matchup depends on how quickly he learns Kevin O’Connell’s offensive playbook.
For a Vikings team off to a hot start, securing a young, cost-controlled player with regular-season experience provides low-risk insurance as they look to maintain their momentum.
