After building back to back strong performances against the Chicago Bears and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool Aid McKinstry hit a rough patch against the Los Angeles Rams in their 34-10 week 9 defeat. The Rams consistently targeted the young defensive back, testing him 6 times and successfully completing each attempt for 82 yards and 2 touchdowns.
He finished the game with a PFF grade of 42.7. While the performance was a setback, his recent growth and flashes of high level play suggest that this may have been more of a learning experience than a lasting concern, as he continues to develop in the Saints secondary. He will look to use this adversity as motivation to regain his steam.
McKinstry will have another tall task ahead of him the week against Carolina Panthers rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who is having an impressive first year. This matchup will provide McKinstry with an immediate opportunity to bounce back and prove that last week’s struggles were a temporary setback.
Tetairoa McMillan won't make it easy for Kool-Aid McKinstry to regain momentum
McMillan has quickly established himself as one of the best recievers in the 2025 draft class. He has made an immediate impact on the Panthers offense, emerging as a reliable target and consistent playmaker.
Through 9 games the rookie receiver has hauled in 41 receptions for 558 yards ranking 2nd amongst rookies and added 2 touchdowns. If he maintains this pace, he’s on track to eclipse the 1,000 yard mark by the end of the season, an impressive accomplishment for a first year player stepping into the league.
The matchup between McMillan and McKinstry will be an entertaining battle to watch this week. Both youngsters have shown flashes of their high end potential and this game will offer a chance for each player to make a statement. McKinstry will look to reestablish his momentum and show the Saints coaching staff that he’s learning and adjusting each week.