The New Orleans Saints entered the 2025 season with their defense projected to be one of the leagues weakest. A lack of proven playmakers and several glaring roster gaps led analysts to set low expectations for the units performance.
Through the first ten games of the season, the Saints get a modest grade of a C. Although they aren’t really good, the unit has slightly exceeded expectations, ranking in the upper end of the league's lower tier in nearly every defensive category.
Statistically, the Saints defense shows that they are a unit that is fighting to stay afloat. The team currently ranks 23rd in points allowed, 13th in total yards surrendered, 22nd in sacks per game and 20th in total takeaways.
Kool-Aid McKinstry's up and down start puts a bullseye on the fial stretch
Coming into the season, the Saints hoped young cornerback Kool Aid McKinstry jump in his sophomore campaign. Through 10 games, his year has featured its share of peaks and valleys, but McKinstry also has clearly taken a step forward as a full time starter, highlighted by the first interceptions of his career. His performance has warranted him an average grade of a C.
McKinstry has put together some impressive performances, including a breakout game against the New York Giants in which he recorded multiple interceptions and earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. There have also been a couple of poor performances as well, which highlight that consistency is still a work in progress. Despite the ups and downs, McKinstry's overall trajectory remains encouraging as he continues to adjust to being a full time starter.
McKinstry has a slightly below average PFF grade of a 58.8, due to allowing 448 yards and 6 touchdowns on the year. While he hasn’t given up an excessive amount of yardage, the number of touchdowns allowed is an area that needs improvement.
Development in this area will be key for McKinstry to raise his overall grade and become a more consistent threat in coverage. So far, he has recorded 36 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 7 pass breakups. He is looking to close out the final 6 games strong to build momentum and continue his upward trajectory as a playmaker in the Saints secondary.