Key Takeaways
- Keanu Neal earned approximately $27 million over his eight-year NFL career, beginning with a $10.7 million rookie contract with the Falcons and ending with the Steelers in 2024 before his retirement in 2025.
- Despite being a first-round draft pick and Pro Bowl selection in 2017, Neal’s earning potential was hampered by injuries and over $88,000 in fines for various infractions throughout his career.
- Neal’s estimated net worth of $10-15 million as of 2025 reflects both his substantial career earnings and the financial impacts of his injuries and career challenges.
Keanu Neal, the former NFL safety, has built an impressive career over his eight seasons in the league.
From his early days as a first-round draft pick to his retirement in 2025, Neal accumulated significant earnings through contracts, bonuses, and endorsements.
His net worth reflects his time in professional football and his financial decisions throughout his career.
Career Earnings And Contracts
Keanu Neal’s financial success can be traced back to his rookie contract with the Atlanta Falcons.
Selected 17th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, Neal signed a fully guaranteed four-year deal worth $10.737 million, including a $6 million signing bonus.
His early performances solidified his role as a key defensive player, earning him a Pro Bowl selection in 2017.
The Falcons exercised his fifth-year option in 2019, securing an additional $6.466 million for the 2020 season.
However, injuries impacted his career, limiting his playing time and earnings potential in later years.
Neal moved between teams in his final seasons, signing:
- A one-year, $4 million contract with the Dallas Cowboys in 2021.
- A one-year, $1.27 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022.
- A two-year, $4.25 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023.
His tenure with the Steelers ended abruptly in 2024 when he was released, clearing $2.25 million in cap space for the team.
Neal ultimately announced his retirement from the NFL on February 23, 2025, at the age of 29.
While Neal amassed substantial earnings, he also faced multiple fines throughout his career, totaling over $88,000 for various infractions, including unnecessary roughness and impermissible use of the helmet.
These penalties, along with injuries in 2018 and 2019, affected his financial standing and playing opportunities.
Keanu Neal’s Estimated Net Worth
As of 2025, Keanu Neal’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $15 million.
His earnings from contracts, performance incentives, and potential endorsement deals have contributed to his wealth.
However, expenses, fines, and medical treatments from injuries likely reduced his overall financial reserves.
With his retirement, Neal now has the opportunity to explore ventures outside of football.
Many former players turn to coaching, broadcasting, or business investments, and it remains to be seen what path Neal will take.
His experience and reputation in the NFL provide a solid foundation for future endeavors.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Keanu Neal was given his name in honor of the actor Keanu Reeves.
- His older brother Clinton Hart also played as a safety in the National Football League.
- Neal considers former Seattle Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor his mentor and displays a signed Chancellor jersey in his locker as a sign of respect.
