The New Orleans Saints used a second-round pick on defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry out of Alabama this offseason, nabbing him at a much lower draft position than most had anticipated. This may have been due to a foot injury that McKinstry was dealing with, specifically a Jones fracture in his right foot. These types of injuries generally take about three to four months to heal, and McKinstry has met that timeline.
According to multiple reports, including one from Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football, McKinstry was participating in the training camp practice Wednesday. Additionally, he did “everything” they were supposed to, which is a hugely encouraging sign in his recovery timeline.
McKinstry was also seen working with Marshon Lattimore and Alontae Taylor on the JUGS machine after practice, according to Ross Jackson at Saints News Network.
This type of progress is impressive no doubt, as it shows McKinstry is ready to ramp up and potentially be fully ready for the season if things go well. Working with the defensive backs even after practice is a good sign as well, showing his work ethic and ability to keep moving even after a full practice session. He could end up being a key contributor to the Saints this season, and with how things are looking, that may be more likely now than ever.