The Pittsburgh Steelers sign Keanu Neal, a veteran safety, to a two-year deal, according to Neal’s agent David Canter’s announcement on Twitter. Neal was a former first-round pick of the Atlanta Falcons in 2016, contributing significantly to the Falcons’ Super Bowl LI run in his rookie season. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in his second season, establishing himself as a playmaking safety in Dan Quinn’s defense. Neal’s career, however, has been hindered by several injuries in the subsequent seasons, but he managed to play 14 games for the Falcons in 2020 before leaving for Dallas in 2021. Neal joined the Buccaneers in the last season, playing in 17 games with eight starts.

Keanu Neal, former Pro Bowl safety, signs a two-year deal with the Steelers

Despite being seen as a promising young star earlier in his career, Neal’s standing has waned in recent years. He will now have the opportunity to prove himself in Pittsburgh, as the Steelers bid farewell to Terrell Edmunds, a former first-rounder who signed with the Eagles, this offseason. The Steelers’ safety group includes Damontae Kazee, Neal’s former teammate in Atlanta, who is expected to start at strong safety, and free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Neal will need to compete for playing time in the Steelers’ defense, which was renowned for its opportunism in 2022. However, his addition will provide depth to the team’s defense, and he hopes to make an impact in his eighth season in the league.