With the Wednesday deadline for top 30 visits rapidly approaching, the New York Giants have kicked things into high gear, hosting several 2024 NFL draft prospects in recent days.
That trend will continue straight through the weekend and will include Alabama defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry.
Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry is a busy man: Sources say he has upcoming 30 visits with the #Eagles, #Giants and #Falcons.
A projected 1st-round pick, McKinstry ran 4.47 at his Pro Day ahead of his Jones fracture surgery in his foot — he will be good to go for training camp. pic.twitter.com/1MeD37AZgV
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 11, 2024
The Giants have significant needs in their secondary and have quietly been meeting with cornerbacks and safeties. McKinstry is widely considered among the best at his position and is a projected first-round pick, although No. 6 might be a little high for him.
NFL Network draft analyst Lance Zierlein views him as a pure cover corner, which is precisely what the Giants are seeking for Shane Bowen’s defense.
Three-year starter and former five-star prospect with a quirky name and consistent game. McKinstry is patient and well-groomed in matching the outside release and riding the inside release from press. He’s confident to handle business on an island and is able to stay in phase as the route travels vertically. He’s not overly fast but does play with plus acceleration to close out crossing routes or make aggressive plays on the catch point. As with most college corners, McKinstry will need to transition some of his open-field hand usage into quality footwork to avoid downfield penalties. He’s more aggressive in coverage than he is as a tackler and could find himself forced to prove his toughness in that area. McKinstry is more of a pure cover man than a playmaker, but his poise, intelligence and athleticism should lead him toward becoming a good outside corner with scheme versatility.
If the Giants want a shot at McKinstry, they’ll have to overdraft him at No. 6 overall, trade down in the first round, or trade up from the second round.
