Alabama cornerback Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry made headlines during the 2024 NFL Draft when he was selected as the 41st pick by the New Orleans Saints.
Football fans across the nation have been curious about the origin of McKinstry’s unique nickname, and here’s the scoop.
Born on September 30, 2002, in Birmingham, Alabama, Kool-Aid McKinstry started his football career at Pinson Valley High School. As a five-star recruit, he went on to play football at the University of Alabama, where he achieved many highlights, including being named a first-team All-American in 2023. Following the 2023 season, McKinstry decided to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft.
McKinstry’s nickname, Kool-Aid, was lovingly given to him by his grandmother when he was born. According to the cornerback, his grandmother dubbed him with the nickname because of his “Kool-Aid smile.” “When I came home, I was smiling,” McKinstry shared at the NFL combine. “She said I had the Kool-Aid smile.”
To honor his nickname, Kool-Aid can often be seen wearing a chain with a Kool-Aid Man pendant. In 2021, Kool-Aid announced an NIL endorsement partnership with McKinstry, and following the NFL Draft, they revealed a special limited-edition black cherry flavor in honor of the cornerback.
The 2024 NFL Draft took place on April 25 at the Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park in Detroit, Michigan. The event concluded on April 27, with 257 athletes being selected by teams across the league. The first pick of the draft went to Washington D.C. quarterback Caleb Williams, who was chosen by the Chicago Bears. The Bears obtained the first pick through a trade with the Carolina Panthers during the 2023 draft.
Kool-Aid McKinstry’s journey from high school standout to college star and now NFL draftee has captivated fans, and with his infectious smile and talent, he is sure to make a big impact on the New Orleans Saints and the NFL as a whole.
