Although Arkansas football had one of the historically worst defenses last season, the primary reason the Razorbacks finished the season 2-10 overall and 0-8 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Julian Neal, who was a legitimate prospect to make an NFL roster before the 2026 NFL Draft started, proves to college football recruits and NFL team executives that Arkansas continues to be rich soil for not only offensive and special teams athletes but also defensive players.
Seattle Seahawks select Arkansas football DB Julian Neal
Neal was going to hear his name called in the draft because his talent unquestionably merits selection, and NFL teams need quality defensive backs. Most expected Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. or quarterback Taylen Green to be chosen before him. The 2026 NFL Draft, however, was full of surprises. Many were picked earlier than expected, and many were selected much later than expected.
The Seattle Seahawks pride themselves on delivering intense physicality on offense, defense, and special teams. In reviewing film on Neal, Aden Durde, Seahawks' defensive coordinator, had to appreciate how aggressive a defensive back Neal is. In the NFL, wide receivers are increasing not only in size but also in how physical they play. Therefore, to be successful, defensive backs must match or exceed the physicality that wide receivers present.
Understanding that Neal's size, physicality, and overall skills make him an apt fit for the Seahawks' "Dark Side" defense, Durde did not hesitate to take him with the 99th pick in the draft. Even though his fellow Arkansas teammates on the defensive side of the ball did not provide much support, Neal proved himself reliable in the rushing and passing games. Just as opposing college football teams discovered, NFL teams will soon learn that he is a fierce tackler.
What the Razorbacks DB brings to the Dark Side
Last season for the Hogs, Neal had 55 tackles, two interceptions, and 10 pass breakups. Along with NFL size, physicality, and overall robust ball skills, Neal brings valuable SEC experience to the Seahawks. When football players have an opportunity to start and play in the SEC as he did, they compete against many other athletes who are the best preparation for the next level.
Therefore, while Seahawks fans unfamiliar with Neal's performances against SEC competition may question Durde's decision to pick a defensive back in the late third round from an Arkansas defense that was horrible last season, they need to understand that it was not Neal's fault that the defense underperformed. He consistently performed well, though. His solid production was achieved despite playing on a Razorbacks defense last season that rarely generated a pass rush, exposing the secondary constantly to vulnerability in the passing game. He did not complain. Instead, he met the challenge.
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