Jalen Neal
CFM
Center Back
Right Back
Back Line Anchor
Aug 24, 2003 (23)
Right
6'3"
170 lb
Set to miss time
Neal will not be involved at least in the next game against Nashville while he recovers from a lower body issue, the league announced Friday.
Analysis: Neal is usually a starting center-back, but this injury may keep him out for an extended period in the final weeks of the season. However, the full extent of the situation has yet to be revealed. His defensive duties will likely be covered by Efrain Morales and Brandan Craig for as long as the injury persists.
Uncertain for Atlanta clash
Neal (undisclosed) was absent from CF Montreal's training session Monday, leaving his availability for Wednesday's MLS clash against Atlanta United uncertain, according to Maxime Truman.
Analysis: Neal missed Monday's training session ahead of Wednesday's meeting with Atlanta, raising concerns about his availability for the match. The center-back has been a regular starter for Montreal this season, recording 27 tackles, 21 interceptions and 71 clearances across 17 MLS appearances, including 16 starts. With Brandan Craig also absent from training, Montreal could face a shortage of defensive options. Josh-Duc Nteziryayo could be handed his first MLS minutes of the season if Neal and other defenders are unable to feature.
Defensive stalwart in win
Neal recorded four tackles (four won), 12 clearances and two interceptions in Saturday's 3-1 win over FC Cincinnati.
Analysis: Neal was dominating the match defensively with four tackles and 12 clearances in a 3-1 win. Though Toronto FC has not been a great side this season, they have scored 39 goals in 27 matches so Neal should see enough work to post strong defensive numbers again.
Makes six clearances in loss
Neal generated two tackles (one won), six clearances and four interceptions in Saturday's 1-0 defeat versus Colorado Rapids.
Analysis: Neal led Montreal with a season-high six clearances on defense, but they ended up with the road loss. The centerback also made the most interceptions (four) for his side. That was his 13th start in 14 overall appearances in 2026.
Starts Saturday
Neal (concussion) is in the starting lineup for Saturday's visit to Colorado Rapids.
Analysis: Neal has overcome a minor issue that forced him to sit out the first game of the double week. His recovery means he can join Efrain Morales in the middle of the back line, leaving Brandan Craig on the bench while Brayan Vera (lower body) remains out. The young defender could be relied on to cut opposing attacks after recording multiple clearances in 12 consecutive league appearances.
Picks up concussion
Neal has entered concussion protocol, according to the MLS injury report.
Analysis: Neal will not take the field for Montreal and is likely to miss a week, with the defender entering protocol for a concussion. He has started in their past five games, so this is a rough loss as the club loses a starting option and some depth. With Efrain Morales (toe) off the injury report, he could immediately return to a starting role due to Neal's absence.
Wins two tackles
Neal generated three tackles (two won), two clearances and one interception in Saturday's 1-0 victory versus New York City FC.
Analysis: Neal has returned to the starting XI after missing some time earlier in the season. He's earned a start in three of the four games played for Monreal, making six tackles (two won) with 11 clearances and one block made.
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