Did Kool-Aid McKinstry get drafted? Exploring the former Alabama CB's chances in Round 2 of the NFL Draft

Kool-Aid McKinstry was projected to be a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft. The cornerback had a brilliant three-year college career at Alabama and was anticipated to go on Day 1 in Detroit. Following the conclusion of the 2024 NFL draft first round, we take a look at the fate of McKinstry.

Did Kool-Aid McKinstry get drafted?

Kool-Aid McKinstry was projected to be a first-round pick in many mock drafts ahead of the event in Detroit. Despite that, he failed to make it as a first-round selection in the 2024 NFL draft. This shows the draft's unpredictability as some other projections were left out.

The late selection of defensive players in this year's draft probably played a role in McKinstry not getting selected in the first round. No player on the defensive side of the ball was picked until the 15th pick on Thursday when the Indianapolis Colts drafted defensive end Laiatu Latu.

Of the 32 selections in Detroit on Thursday night, only nine were defensive players. This includes three players in McKinstry’s position. The trio of cornerbacks selected were Quinyon Mitchell (Philadelphia Eagles), Terrion Arnold (Detriot Lions) and Nate Wiggins (Baltimore Ravens).

Kool-Aid McKinstry's chances in the 2024 NFL Draft

After missing out on the first round, it will be a huge surprise if McKinstry is not drafted in the second round. A host of teams will be out to get a cornerback on Day 2, and he remains one of the top options available. He is undoubtedly a value pick in the second round.

McKinstry has been one of the most prominent figures on the Alabama defense since securing a starting role as a freshman. The early breakout of the former five-star recruit has made him a coveted prospect among NFL teams. A couple of teams will now be out to get him.

Kool-Aid McKinstry was a two-time first-team All-SEC prospect during his time at Alabama. He earned the first-team All-American honor in his final season with the Crimson Tide. He can take all he learned in Tuscaloosa in three years to the professional stage.