2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Elias Neal, LB, Marshall University

• Name: Elias Neal
• Position: LB
• College: Marshall University
• Height: 6’0”
• Weight: 225 lbs
• X (Twitter): @eliasneal24
• Instagram: @eli.3k

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I was watching a game and I saw shoulder pads and thought they were their shoulders and I wanted the get big shoulders to play.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Beating Notre Dame and having the #1 defense in the country in 2020.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

To be able to play linebacker at a high level in the NFL I truly believe I can.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Probably my dad when he played, because I never got to see him play.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My little brother because he has been through a lot of adversity and I admire his strength.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

Probably a 4-2-5 because I feel like I have more range to make plays.

What should we know about Elias Neal the person?

I love laughing and making people laugh.

What stands out about your film the most?

I think the way I’m able to evade and nullify blocks stands out because of my flex ability and athleticism.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I pray and I keep working.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would gain a fierce competitor that is a sponge willing to learn. A leader that will uphold a organization’s culture and standard and give nothing short of my all.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I like being able to chase a goal with like minded people.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Probably Charlie Gray, I don’t know if he didn’t play enough or what but when he did the film speaks for itself.