Devin Neal limited at practice with ankle but Saints expect him to start vs Dolphins in critical Week 13 matchup

Devin Neal is limited at practice but expected to be ready for Sunday’s crucial matchup. The rookie running back participated at a limited level Wednesday with an ankle injury as the Saints prepare for the high-stakes Dolphins game. Despite the injury designation, Neal looks primed to shoulder the load for New Orleans (2-9) offense.

Neal’s Limited Practice But Expected to Play

The New Orleans Saints running back appeared in Wednesday’s practice but with limitations due to the ankle issue. According to the official injury report from the Saints organization, Neal was listed as a limited practice participant, a positive sign for his availability. Head coach Kellen Moore indicated the injury is nothing more than maintenance work and he remains optimistic about the rookie’s status for Sunday.

Neal’s ability to practice, even in limited capacity, suggests he’s tracking toward starting against the Dolphins this week. Fantasy football analysts and major sports outlets confirmed his participation level suggests he should be ready despite the ankle designation on the official NFL injury report.

Alvin Kamara Ruled Out, Paving Way for Neal’s Breakout

Alvin Kamara, the Saints’ star running back, was ruled out for the matchup after suffering an MCL sprain and missing the final three quarters of last Sunday’s game against Atlanta. The veteran didn’t practice Wednesday, solidifying his absence for this crucial week. This opens the door for Neal to lead the entire backfield in what could be his biggest opportunity yet.

Neal already proved he could handle an increased workload last week when Kamara went down early. In his extended playing time against the Falcons, the rookie totaled 7 carries for 18 yards and 5 receptions for 43 yards, setting season highs across the board. He played 86% of the team’s snaps in that game, showing the coaching staff’s confidence in his ability to manage a significant role.

Rookie Ready to Lead Saints Backfield Against Miami Defense

The Kansas product demonstrated exactly why he was drafted when he seized his opportunity last week. Quarterback Tyler Shough praised Neal‘s performance after the game, specifically noting his physicality. “He was laying the boom quite a few times,” Shough said. “He was doing his job really well.” The rookie showed he could burst through holes, catch the ball effectively, and block in the passing game.

Right guard Cesar Ruiz and rookie left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. both marveled at Neal’s progress week to week. His explosiveness and downhill running style have impressed teammates, and at 5-foot-11 and 213 pounds, he brings a powerful, compact frame to the backfield. In college at Kansas, Neal rushed for 4,343 yards and 49 touchdowns on 760 carries.

Miami’s Struggling Run Defense Sets Up Perfect Matchup

The Dolphins present a prime opportunity for Neal to make a major impact. Miami allows 142.6 rushing yards per game, which ranks fourth-worst in the entire league. In recent weeks, the Dolphins have allowed some staggering rushing performances: 239 yards, 197 yards, 172 yards, 157 yards, 156 yards, 150 yards, and 140 yards in individual games. This matchup setup could be exactly what the Saints need to establish their ground game.

Neal himself acknowledged the opportunity waiting for him. “I still feel like I’ve got a lot of work to do. I can continue to get better, continue to find ways to get better for this team to ultimately win games,” he told reporters. The Saints rank fourth-fewest in rushing yards at 91.5 per game, and with Kamara out, Neal’s touches will be crucial to establishing balance on offense.

Can Neal Step Up When the Saints Need Him Most This Sunday?

Devin Neal has repeatedly stated his philosophy about preparedness: “I have to be prepared. That’s my mentality when it comes to this.” Even while backing up Alvin Kamara, the sixth-round pick studied film as if he were getting every snap, studied opponents, and worked to master every aspect of the running back position. This preparation mindset has clearly paid dividends.

With Kamara sidelined and Neal’s ankle injury appearing manageable, everything aligns for the rookie to have his most impactful game yet. The Saints (2-9) face a critical matchup against Miami (4-7) at Hard Rock Stadium this Sunday. Neal is not just expected to play, he’s expected to lead the offense and prove that his first big opportunity wasn’t a fluke. The Dolphins’ vulnerable run defense combined with Neal’s increased confidence and role make this a potential breakout moment for the young running back from Kansas.

Daniel Harris

Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.