The Michigan Panthers signed linebacker James Neal on Wednesday according to the UFL Transactions page.
James Neal is six foot and weighs 231 pounds. A native of Paris, Texas, Neal transferred to Texas State in 2024 making 52 tackles (26 solos, 26 assists), 1.5 tackles for loss, one pass breakup, and one forced fumble in 13 games for the Bobcats.
Collegiately, Neal played one season at Abilene Christian University in 2019 making six tackles (5 solos, 1 assist) in 12 games for the Wildcats. Next, he transferred to Tyler Community College in the 2020-21 season making 78 tackles (56 solos, 22 assists), 8.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions for 21 yards, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery in eight games for the Apache. He was named First Team All-American and First Team All-SWJCFC.
Then, he transferred to UTEP (2021-23) making 97 tackles (34 solos, 63 assists), 2.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception for 30 yards, three pass breakups, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries in 28 games for the Miners. He was named a two-time Conference USA Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll (2022-23).
Neal attended Paris High School where he was named a two-time All-Red River Valley as a junior and senior. He also competed in track and field for four years and was a member of the National Honor Society.
