General Manager Mickey Loomis announced today that the New Orleans Saints have signed cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry to a four-year contract. McKinstry, standing at 5-11 and weighing 199 pounds, was the team’s second-round pick (41st overall) out of Alabama. Over three seasons with the Crimson Tide, McKinstry showcased his versatility and athleticism, amassing 92 tackles (61 solo), two interceptions, and 25 passes defensed. As Alabama’s primary punt returner for two seasons, he added another dimension to his game with 35 punt returns for 418 yards, averaging an impressive 11.9 yards per return.
#Saints sign CB Kool-Aid McKinstry to a 4-year deal – via @SaintsCSC
In his final season at Alabama, McKinstry started all 14 games, helping lead the Crimson Tide to an SEC Championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. His contributions included 32 tackles (24 solo), seven passes defensed, and 14 punt returns for 86 yards. McKinstry’s outstanding performance earned him consensus first-team All-American and All-SEC honors, and he was a semifinalist for the Thorpe Award. In 2022, he was recognized as a second-team All-American at both cornerback and punt returner and was a first-team All-SEC defensive back. Joining a talented Saints secondary featuring Marshon Lattimore, Paulson Adebo, and Alontae Taylor, McKinstry is poised to make an immediate impact both on defense and special teams.
