What happened: Per Jordan Schultz, Minnesota is adding Neal apart from its Tuesday official transactions. The second-year back was waived by New Orleans in early September after a stint on injured reserve. Minnesota also moved Max Brosmer to the active roster and released Jerome Ford and Jaret Patterson from the practice squad.
Why it matters: Jordan Mason is on injured reserve while Aaron Jones Sr. is banged up and averaging 3.9 yards per carry. Demond Claiborne remains early in his rookie season, leaving reps behind the top two. Neal would compete with Deejay Dallas for depth in a thin backfield.
By the numbers: Neal, 23, played 10 games last season: 57 rushes for 206 yards and 2 TD, plus 17 catches on 19 targets for 104 yards. At Kansas he topped 1,000 rushing yards in each season from 2022-24 with 20-plus receptions every year.
What to watch: Watch for official confirmation of Neal's roster spot and designation. Sunday against Miami will clarify the pecking order behind Jones.