Westley Neal Jr. is a disruptive, veteran anchor on Rhode Island’s defensive line
In the 2024 season, Neal emerged as a first-team All-CAA-caliber playmaker: he started all 14 games, posted a career-high 41 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and 4 sacks, and also added an interception, a pass breakup and a blocked kick. Rhode Island’s coaches describe him as a four-year starter who absorbs heavy attention up front, while Hula Bowl reports praised his reaction quickness, strength, acceleration and relentless effort. The main fit factor: he brings proven production, leadership and interior disruption, though he profiles as a shorter, leverage-based lineman rather than a size-first space-eater.
