The New Orleans Saints will kick off their 2026 season in just over three weeks, traveling to Detroit to face the Lions on September 13. Running back Devin Neal, now in his second professional season, currently wears the No. 24 jersey for the franchise as he competes for a roster spot in the team’s backfield rotation.
Neal is the 26th player in Saints history to don the No. 24 uniform since the team’s inception. The jersey has been worn by a diverse array of athletes across multiple positions, including cornerbacks, safeties, and running backs. Notable predecessors include cornerback Milton Mack, who appeared in 67 games—more than any other player to wear the number—and running back Mario Bates, the highest draft pick ever selected to wear No. 24 after being chosen in the second round of the 1994 draft.
From cornerback Elijah Nevett, who first wore the number during the franchise’s inaugural years, to defensive stalwarts like Corey White and Leigh Torrence, the No. 24 jersey carries a rich history. Several players, including safety Vonn Bell and cornerback Fred Weary, made significant defensive impacts during their tenures. As Neal enters his second campaign, he follows in the footsteps of numerous contributors who have represented the number throughout the Saints’ history.
