Kool-Aid McKinstry Ready to Shine in 2025 with Saints

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The New Orleans Saints believe they have a future star in cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry, and the 2025 NFL season could be his breakout year. The 22-year-old, selected in the second round of the 2024 draft, has been named by The Athletic as the Saints’ top breakout candidate heading into the new season. McKinstry’s rookie year came with its share of ups and downs, but his potential was on full display. Opposing quarterbacks posted a passer rating of under 78 when targeting him, including a three-game stretch where they completed only 6 of 20 passes in his coverage. Those numbers helped convince New Orleans to move on from veteran corner Marshon Lattimore and allow Paulson Adebo to depart in free agency. Even with McKinstry’s rise, the Saints have been aggressive in addressing their cornerback room. They made a strong push for free agent Chavarius Ward, drafted Quincy Riley, and hosted standout defender Asante Samuel Jr. for a visit in June. Still, McKinstry remains the centerpiece of their secondary plans.

A three-year starter at Alabama, McKinstry consistently matched up against elite SEC receivers and proved himself in high-pressure moments. His combination of discipline, football IQ, and physical talent make him a prime candidate to take a leap forward this year.

With a bigger role ahead, the Saints are counting on McKinstry to anchor a young and evolving defense. If he continues his upward trajectory, 2025 could be the year he cements his place as one of the NFL’s rising stars.