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Throughout OTAs and minicamp, the New Orleans Saints have had a pair of defensive standouts that have been hard to miss. Cornerbacks Alontae Taylor and Kool-Aid McKinstry have both been fantastic.
While Taylor got a lot of coverage and attention last week, this week has been all about the second-year McKinstry.
One of our breakout candidates for the 2025 season, the former Alabama corner has been living up to his billing.
Consistency In Offseason Programs
It feels like just about every day that we have been able to see Saints’ offseason practices, McKinstry has had a highlight. His best day was his latest, showing that he has not only been consistent, but consistently progressing as well.
On Wednesday at the team’s second mandatory minicamp practice, McKinstry had back-to-back pass breakups. His first was a near-interception while covering veteran wideout Brandin Cooks. The second was a play while defending wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. in the endzone.
The play against Wilson was most impressive as the receiver looked like he was going to comfortably secure quarterback Spencer Rattler’s fourth touchdown of the day. Instead, McKinstry maintained composure and ripped the ball away, forcing the incompletion.
🧎🏾♂️4. 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/qpP8wkazId
— Kool-Aid “🎰” McKinstry (@GaQMcK1) June 6, 2025
Building On Momentum
McKinstry had a strong finish to the 2024 season, allowing just five receptions as the closest defender over the final three games.
His physical play style and comfort in new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s system are both contributing factors to the growing excitement around the young corner.
Just In Time For New Orleans
The Saints have seen their starting corner tandem from last season depart. Marshon Lattimore was moved at the trade deadline last year to the Washington Commanders. Meanwhile, Paulson Adebo departed in free agency to the New York Giants.
McKinstry’s ascension is happening at the perfect time for the Saints.
