All signs point towards a breakout year for 3rd year CB Kool-Aid McKinstry

METAIRIE, LOUISIANA - JULY 30: Kool-Aid McKinstry #1 of the New Orleans Saints signs autographs during training camp at Ochsner Sports Performance Center on July 30, 2026 in Metairie, Louisiana. (Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It seems one player on the defensive side of the ball has really been turning heads, and it's a much-needed step in his development: cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry.

When Alontae Taylor signed with the Titans during the offseason, McKinstry changed his jersey number from 4 to 1. But he's not just trying to wear No. 1-he's trying to prove he's the No. 1 cornerback on this roster.

The players and coaches have certainly taken notice. Even when McKinstry isn't on the field, the offense notices his absence, as they're able to move the ball a little more effectively through the air.

Justin Reid even went out of his way over the weekend to highlight how much work McKinstry has put in during the offseason and how much he has improved.

"Kool-Aid McKinstry is a baller," - @JustinqReidpic.twitter.com/DoZyspNUe9

- New Orleans Saints (@Saints) July 29, 2026

Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football also shared comments from Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley. Staley talked about how McKinstry has transformed his body and dedicated himself to improving his conditioning. He also noted that having a full year of starting experience under his belt is beginning to show throughout training camp.

McKinstry taking these strides will only make the defense better. The Saints finished last season with a top-10 passing defense, and having a young cornerback continue to emerge will only strengthen that unit even more.

Jordan Schultz has also identified McKinstry as one of his early breakout candidates for the 2026 season.

After having conversations with coaches and executives, here are my early offensive and defensive breakout picks for 2026. pic.twitter.com/WaQQlF9AGA

- Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 3, 2026

What do you expect from McKinstry heading into his third year in the NFL? Do you think this will be the season he solidifies himself as the cornerback for the Saints?