The defensive back found his footing in year two.

When the New Orleans Saints selected cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry with the 41st pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the long-term outlook was that he could eventually replace Marshon Lattimore, whose time in the Big Easy was nearing its end.

After a bumpy rookie season, the light at the end of the tunnel has never been brighter for McKinstry.

The 23-year-old bounced back with a sophomore leap, recording 77 total tackles (67 solo), 15 stops, 12 pass breakups and led the team with three interceptions. Most importantly, he was tasked with covering the opposing team’s top pass catcher, marking the first time the Saints opened a season without Lattimore leading the secondary since 2017.

While the Saints should still consider adding a cornerback in the upcoming draft— especially with Alontae Taylor testing the free-agent market—McKinstry and 2025 fourth-round pick Quincy Riley have shown immense promise for the future of the cornerback room.