Kool-Aid McKinstry returns to Saints practice

By Ross Jackson

METAIRIE, La. — The New Orleans Saints secondary may be flexing all of its young talent this weekend against the Cleveland Browns. Per reports, rookie cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry was back at Saints practice on Wednesday. He and third-year cornerback Alontae Taylor are set to get their first reps as a starting pair on the outside this weekend, a true look at the future of the position for New Orleans. 

Here are was the attendance at Wednesday’s practice per multiple reports:

Not seen:

G Lucas Patrick

Returned:

WR Cedrick Wilson Jr. 

CB Kool-Aid McKinstry

Side work:

RB Jamaal Williams

While the Saints look set to get their starting center Erik McCoy back this weekend, they may not have their full complement of offensive linemen just yet. Patrick missed last week’s game with an ankle injury. Per a team source, he was in a walking boot. We’ll see if that continues for the veteran guard as the week rolls along. Second-year lineman Nick Saldiveri started in his place against the Atlanta Falcons. 

Linebacker Pete Werner was present, with his hand wrapped. Interim Head Coach Darren Rizzi told the local media that Werner’s hand injury would require more testing to determine the severity of the ailment. With his being present, that at least shows that he is expecting to be in the field this weekend. Even if he has to play with a wrapped hand.