Keanu Neal needs surgery on knee, out 3-4 weeks

Falcons first-round draft pick Keanu Neal exited before Jones with a knee injury.

He also missed the first preseason game against Washington with a “trunk” injury.

Atlanta Falcons rookie safety Keanu Neal is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks after hurting his knee in Thursday’s preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.

It was the second injury for Neal this preseason.

Coach Dan Quinn said he is encouraged Neal avoided a more serious injury that could have kept him out longer.

Jones was termed questionable to return to the Atlanta Falcons’ game against the Miami Dolphins, but he was held out for the rest of the game as a precaution.

Other safeties on the roster include Sharrod Neasman and Damian Parms. Quinn is still waiting for more information on Devin Fuller’s injury, but he does not expect any of them to miss the season opener against Tampa Bay.

17 overall pick in this year’s draft, was expected to start for Atlanta in the season opener against Tampa Bay on September 11.

Neal’s injury was the worst part of a bad night for the Falcons in Orlando.

On Twitter, Neal downplayed the injury posting, “Relax”. He was right, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to be ready to start the regular season.

All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones also suffered an injury but seems to be okay. Anything that impacts his development in that role is a blow to the team.