The Indianapolis Colts own the 15th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Will they select Ga\u2019Quincy \u201cKool-Aid\u201d McKinstry? The Alabama cornerback probably has the coolest nickname in the draft. But that, of course, isn\u2019t the reason why the Colts should select him. Indianapolis needs to address its secondary, and McKinstry is considered one of the draft\u2019s top defensive backs.<\/p>\n
If McKinstry is taken by the Colts, he would be the fifth defensive back the team has selected over the past three drafts<\/a>. 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.<\/p>\n McKinstry spent three seasons with the Alabama Crimson Tide. As a freshman, he replaced current Denver Broncos<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n 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<\/a>. The Birmingham native teamed with Terrion Arnold<\/a> to form possibly the country\u2019s top cornerback duo. Alabama’s defense held its opponents to only 6.5 yards per pass attempt.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n The Colts could use the 15th pick on a pass-catcher like Georgia tight end Brock Bowers<\/a> or LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.<\/a> Both players would be a great offensive weapon for quarterback Anthony Richardson.<\/p>\n Yet, the Colts should focus more on fixing their defensive secondary. This season, the team ranked<\/a> 16th in pass defense, allowing 226 yards per game.<\/p>\n During the Week 18 loss to the Houston Texans, Nico Collins carved up the Colts\u2019 D, catching a ridiculous 75-yard touchdown pass on the team\u2019s first possession. The wide receiver finished with nine catches for 195 yards.<\/p>\n McKinstry, who has the potential to be a shutdown NFL cornerback, can help the Colts\u2019 defense immediately. At 6\u20191\u201d, 190 pounds, he has the combination of size, length, and athleticism needed to contain the league\u2019s elite wide receivers. Plus, he possesses good instincts and ball skills.<\/p>\n2024 NFL Draft: Indianapolis Colts Should Draft Kool-Aid McKinstry<\/h2>\n
McKinstry\u2019s College Career<\/h3>\n
What He Would Bring to the Colts<\/h3>\n