Eric O'Neill (born July 1, 2003) is an American football defensive lineman for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the LIU Sharks, James Madison Dukes, and Rutgers Scarlet Knights. O'Neill was signed by the Lions as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft.
Early life O'Neill attended Tottenville High School in Staten Island and committed to play college football for the LIU Sharks.
College career In three years at LIU from 2021 to 2023, O'Neill totaled 119 tackles with 44.5 for a loss, 15.5 sacks, four pass defections, an interception, and three forced fumbles. He was a two-time first-team all-Northeast Conference (NEC) honoree, the NEC defensive player of the year, and NEC defensive freshman of the year. After the 2023 season, he entered the NCAA transfer portal.
O'Neill transferred to play for the James Madison Dukes. In 2024, he notched 52 tackles with 18.5 for a loss, 13 sacks, three pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown, earning first-team all-Sun Belt honors. After the season, O'Neill entered the NCAA transfer portal.
O'Neill transferred to play for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
Professional career
O'Neill was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Detroit Lions after the conclusion of the 2026 NFL draft.
References
External links LIU Sharks bio James Madison Dukes bio Rutgers Scarlet Knights bio Detroit Lions bio