Seems like Kool-Aid McKinstry has changed numbers from 34 to 14
(via Tyrann Mathieu’s IG) pic.twitter.com/zvmEQOYVC1— Brandon Thomas (@brandont504) September 6, 2024
Have you ever seen a defensive back wearing No. 14? Kool-Aid McKinstry has taken it up and changed his New Orleans Saints jersey number from No. 34, which he wore throughout the summer and preseason games. McKinstry shared a look at his new jersey on his Instagram account (which was boosted by his teammate Tyrann Mathieu) and the change has since been reflected on the Saints’ official team website.
It’s certainly a unique decision. McKinstry wore No. 1 at Alabama but it was taken by Alontae Taylor, so he’s going with No. 14 instead. Maybe he’ll wear it more proudly than other Saints players who came before him — a list that includes names like Andy Dalton, Kawaan Bakeer, Tommylee Lewis, Travin Dural, and a past-his-prime Mark Ingram.
And it isn’t like other options were unavailable. If McKinstry wanted to get out of No. 34, he could’ve taken unclaimed jerseys like Nos. 42, 40, 37, 30, 27, 26, or even No. 2. Instead he’s using the same jersey number as a third-string wide receiver. Hopefully the rookie plays well enough when his number is called to where we don’t have to think about its disappointing history.
