Seattle Seahawks Draft SF Native Julian Neal to Fulfill NFL Dream

San Francisco native Julian Neal achieved his lifelong dream of playing in the National Football League (NFL) after being drafted by the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. Neal, a defensive back from Arkansas, was selected with the 99th overall pick in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, marking a historic moment for his hometown and family.

From Bayview-Hunters Point to the NFL

Neal, who grew up in San Francisco’s Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood, reflected on his journey to the NFL in an interview with ABC7 Eyewitness News. He described the draft as the realization of a dream nurtured since childhood, one that his father, Emmett Neal, had envisioned for him from an early age.

“My dad would always tell me, ‘Son, you have the ability to go. You have all the tools.’ I was always taller than everybody. Fast. You have all the tools to go to the next level. I am just like, ‘What is he talking about?’ You know, I am just out here having fun, catching passes. But he had a vision ever since I was a baby, literally. He had a vision.”

Julian Neal

Neal’s parents recognized his athletic potential early, with his father emphasizing that his son had always aspired to be the best in whatever he pursued. “He wanted to be a professional. So, whatever he dreamed of doing, he wanted to be the best at it,” Emmett Neal said. The draft selection makes Julian Neal the first player from San Francisco to be drafted into the NFL, adding to the significance of his achievement.

Draft Night Celebration and Seahawks’ Pick

The Seahawks selected Neal with the 99th overall pick on Friday, April 24, 2026, after trading back three spots with the Pittsburgh Steelers to acquire an additional sixth-round pick (No. 216 overall). The announcement of his name prompted an emotional celebration with family and friends, captured in a video shared on social media. The moment was described as “The world champs, Seattle Seahawks, select Julian Neal. DB. Arkansas.”

Neal, listed at 6 feet 2 inches and 203 pounds, joins second-round pick Bud Clark, a safety from TCU, as the newest additions to Seattle’s secondary. The Seahawks’ decision to draft Neal reflects their confidence in his ability to contribute to an already talented defensive unit. In interviews, Neal expressed his readiness to compete at the professional level, emphasizing his physicality and reliability.

“I’m the most physical corner in this draft class. I use my arms to my advantage, I use my length, I use my availability. I’ve never gotten hurt; I’ve never missed a game in college from being hurt. I come down and I hit something. I’m going to go up and get the ball, I’m getting interceptions, I’m pressing dudes at the line, I’m locking dudes up at the line. It’s box time.”

Julian Neal

College Career and Transition to Cornerback

Neal’s path to the NFL included a notable college career, beginning at Fresno State, where he started as a safety before transitioning to cornerback. Seeking a greater challenge, he transferred to Arkansas to compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). In his lone season with the Razorbacks, Neal started 12 games, recording two interceptions, 10 pass breakups, 55 tackles, and two tackles for loss. His performance demonstrated his versatility and ability to excel against high-level competition.

Beyond his coverage skills, Neal has emphasized his commitment to physical play, particularly in run defense. “I take that very seriously in the game of football,” he said. “You have to take down the man in front of you. That’s a very big part of my game. If you want to master something in football, master it.”

Inspiration for San Francisco’s Youth

Neal has spoken openly about his desire to serve as a role model for young people in San Francisco, particularly those from underserved communities. His journey from the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood to the NFL underscores the power of perseverance and self-belief. When asked about the number he hopes to wear in Seattle, Neal expressed a preference for No. 1, though he acknowledged the uncertainty of securing it.

“I’m trying to get number 1. Hopefully I can get number 1. If I can’t, I don’t know.”

Julian Neal

The Seahawks will enter the final day of the 2026 NFL Draft with two remaining picks: No. 188 in the sixth round and No. 216, acquired in the trade with Pittsburgh. Neal’s selection adds depth to a secondary that already features standout players, positioning him to make an immediate impact as a rookie.

For Neal, the draft represents not only a personal milestone but also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of athletes in his hometown. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination, family support, and the pursuit of excellence.