CB Kool-Aid McKinstry Signs Four-Year Contract with New Orleans Saints.
Cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry has signed a four-year contract with the New Orleans Saints, according to a statement made today by executive vice president and general manager Mickey Loomis of the team.
Alabama product McKinstry, 5-11, 199, was selected by New Orleans in the second round (41st overall). With the Crimson Tide, he recorded 92 tackles (61 solo), two interceptions, and 25 passes defensed in three seasons (2021–2023). During his two seasons (2022–2023) as Alabama’s starting punt returner, he averaged 11.9 yards on 35 punt returns.
The native of Pinson, Alabama, started all 14 games for the Crimson Tide in 2023, a team that went on to win the SEC Championship and make it to the College Football Playoffs for the second time in three years. He finished with 32 tackles, 24 of which were solo, seven passes defensed, and 86 yards in punt returns. Consensus first-team All-American and All-SEC choices were given to McKinstry, who also placed second in the Thorpe Award voting. McKinstry was a first-team All-SEC defensive back and a second-team All-American in 2022 at cornerback and punt returner. He recorded 35 stops, one sack, one interception, and 16 passes defensed in his defensive stats. He averaged 15.8 yards per punt return and was second among NCAA Division 1-A punt returners with 332 yards on special teams. First in the Southeastern Conference and second in the country.
