Missouri has confirmed another defensive backfield departure as cornerback leaves following three seasons with the Tigers. The Fort Lauderdale, Florida, native is exploring new opportunities elsewhere after struggling to establish a consistent role in the team’s defensive rotation. His decision comes after limited on-field involvement throughout his college career, with just eight appearances across three seasons in Columbia. McNeil’s departure also adds to the personnel changes Missouri could face as it looks ahead to the next college football campaign.
According to On3, Shamar McNeil leaves after spending the entirety of his three-year collegiate career at Missouri. The former three-star recruit appeared in only two games during the 2025 season, finishing the campaign with one tackle.
Over three seasons with the Tigers, McNeil recorded three total tackles, along with one fumble recovery and one pass breakup. Although his opportunities were limited, he will now have the chance to pursue a fresh start and potentially find a program where he can compete for a more prominent role.
Before committing to Missouri, McNeil was regarded as a three-star prospect in the Rivals Industry Rankings. He ranked No. 862 nationally, No. 82 among cornerbacks and No. 129 among prospects from Florida. He attended American Heritage High School in Fort Lauderdale, one of South Florida’s prominent high school football programs.
During his four-year high school career, McNeil helped American Heritage record an impressive 40-10 overall record while making four consecutive state playoff appearances. The Patriots also captured the FHSAA Class 5A State Championship in 2020.
Individually, McNeil finished his high school career with 47 tackles, two tackles for loss, two interceptions and 13 pass breakups, showcasing his defensive potential before making the transition to college football.
McNeil is not the only Missouri defensive back preparing to explore. Safety CJ Bass is also expected to leave, according to On3’s Pete Nakos, marking another potential departure from the Tigers’ secondary.
Unlike McNeil, Bass spent just one season at Missouri after enrolling early in January 2025. However, the former three-star recruit also saw limited playing time during his freshman campaign, appearing in three games.
Bass recorded four total tackles, all of which came during Missouri’s season-opening matchup against Central Arkansas. He also registered one pass breakup in another appearance during the season.
Coming out of high school, Bass was considered a promising defensive prospect in the 2025 recruiting class. According to the Rivals Industry Rankings, he was rated a three-star recruit and ranked No. 449 nationally. He was also listed as the No. 40 safety in the class and the No. 10 overall prospect in Missouri.
Bass developed his game at East St. Louis High School, where he enjoyed considerable team success. He won state championships during his sophomore and senior seasons and also helped his team reach the state championship game as a junior.
During his three years at East St. Louis, the program compiled an impressive 35-6 record, providing Bass with valuable experience at one of the high school level’s successful football programs.
With McNeil and Bass both expected to enter the transfer portal, Missouri could face additional adjustments in its defensive secondary. Both players will now have the opportunity to evaluate their options and identify new destinations as they look to secure more playing time and continue their collegiate football careers.
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