1977 Profile: Richard Neal

Defensive End
No. 81
Southern
"'He's an old pro who knows what's going on,' says Walt Michaels. 'He gives us consistency and leadership.'
Last season Neal probably had his best year since coming to the Jets along with Delles Howell from New Orleans in a 1973 draft eve trade for the Jets' number two and three draft choices. He led last year's defensive line with four quarterback sacks. Neal had 34 solo tackles and 36 assists and played every game but the finale because of a knee injury. He was the defensive captain last season and the player representative in 1975 and 1976.
Richard played three different line spots in his first year with the Jets, then shared right end duties in 1974 and tied for the team lead with five sacks. He's been the regular defensive end the last two seasons.
Richard was the Saints' number two choice in 1969 and was a regular defensive tackle for New Orleans and captain in 1972. In his pro career he has nine fumble recoveries, 12 quarterback sacks and recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a touchdown in 1972.
All-NAIA in 1968, Richard was a four-year letterman and was captain as a senior. He was All-SWAC. He has a B.A. in political science.
Richard works in public relations. His birthplace in Minden, Lousiana and his hometown is Shreveport, Louisiana."

-1977 New York Jets Media Guide