[1] From Memphis, Tennessee, he attended White Station High School there where he played running back and linebacker, recording 750 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns alsong with 95 tackles and two interceptions as a senior.
[2] Neal appeared in all 13 games as a true freshman in 2019, seeing action as backup linebacker and on special teams; he finished the season with 12 tackles and 0.5 tackles-for-loss (TFLs).
[2] In 2020, he started all 10 games while recording 75 tackles, 5.0 TFLs, 1.5 sacks and an interception, being named honorable mention All-Conference USA.
[2] He remained starter in 2021 and opened the season with Conference USA defensive player of the week honors, following an 11-tackle, three-sack performance against Navy.
[2] In 2022, Neal was named honorable mention All-Sun Belt Conference (SBC) after posting a team-leading 98 tackles, 9.5 TFLs and three sacks.