2025 has been full of adversity for second year cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. After a rocky start, he appears to be back on the right track after a strong performance in week eight against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. McKinstry developing into a star defensive back is pivotal for the success of a young New Orleans Saints defense.
McKinstry only allowed two receptions on seven targets for nine yards against the Buccaneers, including two pass breakups in the end zone. He and Alontae Taylor were frequently matched up against star rookie Emeka Egbuka and held him to three receptions for 35 yards on the day.
McKinstry’s year has been defined by peaks and valleys. He started the year poorly, only given a defensive grade above 60 once by PFF. However, he bounced back in week five with two interceptions against the New York Giants. He struggled once again in week six but has been excellent ever since.
The Saints have massive turnover at defensive back. Kool-Aid McKinstry needs to step up and take the No. 1 cornerback role
The Saints defensive back room looks almost entirely different then last year’s group. Below is a table showing the turnover between this and last year’s team.
2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|
Kool-Aid McKinstry | Kool-Aid McKinstry |
Alontae Taylor | Alontae Taylor |
Marshon Lattimore | Quincy Riley |
Paulson Adebo | Isaac Yiadom |
Tyrann Mathieu | Justin Reid |
Will Harris | Jonas Sanker |
McKinstry and Taylor are the only two returning players who played meaningful snaps (Jordan Howden is also still on the roster). Another noticeable difference is the age difference. 2024’s team fielded a more veteran group with Marshon Lattimore, Tyrann Mathieu, and Paulson Adebo. Now, Justin Reid and Alontae Taylor are the only true veterans.
It’s key that McKinstry steps up and declares himself as the star cornerback. This inexperienced group needs someone who can eliminate an area of the field.
The Saints defense have struggled at times in 2025, which is expected, but have been playing better as of late. A major reason is McKinstry’s improvement. He had an impressive game against the Buccaneers and is now looking to translate that momentum to the rest of the year. McKinstry is the X-Factor for the Saints defense finding their footing.