The Indianapolis Colts own the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Will they select Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry? The Alabama cornerback probably has the coolest nickname in the draft. But that, of course, isn’t the reason why the Colts should select him. Indianapolis needs to address its secondary, and McKinstry is considered one of the draft’s top defensive backs.
If McKinstry is taken by the Colts, he would be the fifth defensive back the team has selected over the past three drafts. They took Nick Cross in 2022 and then the trio of Julius Brents, Darius Rush, and Jaylon Jones last year. Despite drafting a ton of defensive backs, the Colts could still use depth in the secondary.
2024 NFL Draft: Indianapolis Colts Should Draft Kool-Aid McKinstry
McKinstry’s College Career
McKinstry spent three seasons with the Alabama Crimson Tide. As a freshman, he replaced current Denver Broncos star Patrick Surtain II in the starting lineup. He was later named to the Freshman All-SEC Team after recording 25 tackles, a sack, an interception, and a pass breakup. As a sophomore, McKinstry produced 35 tackles, a sack, an interception, and 15 pass deflections.
This past season, McKinstry he was a First-Team All-American, coming away with 32 tackles and seven passes defended. He allowed only 208 receiving yards and a 46.5 % completion percentage when targeted, according to PFF. The Birmingham native teamed with Terrion Arnold to form possibly the country’s top cornerback duo. Alabama’s defense held its opponents to only 6.5 yards per pass attempt.
McKinstry also served as a punt returner during his final two seasons. In 2022, he returned 21 punts for 332 yards, averaging 15.8 yards per return (second-best in the nation). Last season, he returned 14 for 86 yards.
What He Would Bring to the Colts
The Colts could use the 15th pick on a pass-catcher like Georgia tight end Brock Bowers or LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. Both players would be a great offensive weapon for quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Yet, the Colts should focus more on fixing their defensive secondary. This season, the team ranked 16th in pass defense, allowing 226 yards per game.
During the Week 18 loss to the Houston Texans, Nico Collins carved up the Colts’ D, catching a ridiculous 75-yard touchdown pass on the team’s first possession. The wide receiver finished with nine catches for 195 yards.
McKinstry, who has the potential to be a shutdown NFL cornerback, can help the Colts’ defense immediately. At 6’1”, 190 pounds, he has the combination of size, length, and athleticism needed to contain the league’s elite wide receivers. Plus, he possesses good instincts and ball skills.
Adding McKinstry would be ideal for the Colts, especially if free agent Kenny Moore II leaves as a free agent this spring. Moore, who had two pick-sixes during a game in 2023, has been Indianapolis’ best cornerback.
McKinstry would make for a nice pairing with Brents, who looked impressive as a rookie this season when healthy. The young duo could lead Indy’s secondary for years to come.
We’ll see if Kool-Aid winds up in the Hoosier State. He’d instantly become a fan favorite and a true playmaker who can impact the game on defense.
Main Photo: [Gary Cosby Jr.] – USA Today Sports
