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.
In 2023, the Pinson, Ala. native started all 14 games for a Crimson Tide team that won the SEC Championship game and advanced to the College Football Playoff for the second time in three seasons and recorded 32 tackles (24 solo) and seven passes defensed to go along with 14 punt returns for 86 yards.
McKinstry earned consensus first-team All-American and All-SEC selections and was a semifinalist for the Thorpe Award.
In 2022, McKinstry was a second-team All-American at cornerback and punt returner and a first-team All-SEC defensive back. On defense, he posted 35 stops, one sack, one interception and 16 passes defensed.
With 332 yards, he was second in the country and first in the Southeastern Conference among NCAA Division 1-A punt returners.
His average return yardage was 15.8 yards. All seven players selected in the draft by the team are currently under contract.
