Most of the chatter recently regarding the New Orleans Saints has centered around veteran quarterback Derek Carr and the promising prospects in the 2025 National Football League Draft class. While both subjects have dominated conversations among analysts and fans alike, there are several players already on the roster who deserve attention heading into the upcoming season.
One area that has undergone significant change is the Saints’ cornerback position, which was dealt a considerable blow in the offseason when Paulson Adebo departed. His exit left a void in the secondary, prompting the Saints' front office to explore potential replacements. Reports surfaced indicating that the team made a strong push to acquire Charvarius Ward, a proven defensive back with the ability to bolster the secondary, but ultimately, that deal did not come to fruition.
Despite these setbacks, the Saints may already have an answer within their roster. One player who could emerge as a crucial piece for the franchise in 2025 is Kool-Aid McKinstry. Selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, McKinstry arrives with high expectations and an opportunity to make an immediate impact. His natural athleticism, ball skills, and ability to read the game put him in a strong position to carve out a substantial role in the Saints' defense.
Saints fans should be especially optimistic about McKinstry’s potential, as general manager Mickey Loomis has spoken highly of him. Loomis expressed confidence in the young cornerback’s future and acknowledged the challenges rookies face when transitioning to the NFL. He noted that McKinstry had a solid first season, despite the adjustments required to adapt to the professional level.
Entering his second year, McKinstry is poised to take on a more significant role, and the Saints’ coaching staff is eager to work with him to refine his skills further. Loomis emphasized that the team’s new coaching staff was impressed with McKinstry during the hiring process and conveyed enthusiasm about his development. Their eagerness to work with the young cornerback suggests that he could become a vital part of the Saints’ defensive strategy moving forward.
With a full offseason ahead to continue honing his craft, McKinstry’s growth will be an exciting storyline to monitor. If he can capitalize on the opportunity and solidify himself as a reliable piece in the secondary, the Saints could find themselves in a much stronger position defensively in the 2025 season.
