NFL draft prospect, Bay Area native Julian Neal determined to make a difference

Julian Neal does not recall ever making it inside Candlestick Park.But from his home on Osceola Lane in San Francisco, he could see the concrete edifice, which stood as the home of the 49ers from 1971 to 2013“Since I was a kid, growing up in Bayview/Hunters Point, being able to see the old stadium from my window, seeing the fireworks and saying to myself, ‘That’s somewhere I want to be someday,’ ” Neal said.Neal is a highly regarded cornerback who finished his college career at Arkansas after four years at Fresno State.He was among the most prominent draft prospects to attend the 49ers’ local pro day on Wednesday at the team’s Santa Clara practice facility.Neal (6-foot-2, 203 pounds) is a competitive, aggressive player who led Arkansas with 12 passes defended and two interceptions last season.He is projected to be a mid-round selection, and could be in the mix for any of the 49ers’ four picks within the fourth round.Neal was asked what exceptions he has for the 2026 NFL Draft.“Hear my name called, get drafted, hopefully by the Niners, so I can stay in the city,” he answered. “I’m not opposed to going...