Marcus Neal Jr. ranks fourth among Penn State players for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 1:03 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Marcus Neal Jr. has been named the fourth top player for Penn State heading into the 2026 season, according to a vote by the BSD staff. Neal, a safety, transferred from Iowa State after earning third team All-Big 12 honors in 2025. He recorded 77 tackles, two interceptions, one forced fumble, and one sack last season. Expectations for Neal are high as he is projected to be a key player in the Big Ten, particularly against run-heavy offenses. His performance this season could lead to an early entry into the NFL Draft.
- •Neal ranked fourth on BSD's top 10 Penn State players list.
- •He transferred to Penn State after two seasons at Iowa State.
- •In 2025, he made 77 tackles and two interceptions.
- •Neal is expected to be a starting safety and key defender.
- •His development could lead to a 2027 NFL Draft entry.
- 1:03 PMYahoo Sports — Penn State’s Top 10 Players For 2026: No. 4 Marcus Neal Jr.
"The BSD staff recently voted for the top 10 Penn State players heading into 2026. The votes are dictated by how the players are expected to perform in the upcoming season, without factoring in long-term or NFL potential. Each member submitted a ballot with players ranked 1-10, with a first-place vote being 10 points, a second […]
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