Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry Koolest NIL Deal

First Round Mock’s Victoria Jonach found out what Alabama cornerback (CB) Kool-Aid McKinstry has been up to with a longtime popular drink.

College athletes everywhere are quickly becoming comfortable with the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Deals are getting more creative by the day.

However, a certain defensive back from Alabama might get the award for the deal that best correlates with the player.

Kool-Aid partners with Kool-Aid

In August 2021, Kool-Aid McKinstry partnered with the popular drink company with the same name. Both parties tweeted about the endorsement.

McKinstry shared the same photo with the caption, “Sooooo does this mean I get to shout OH YEAH if I want when I walk into a new room 👀 ?🤔  @koolaid”

Tuscaloosa News reports that McKinstry’s nickname originated from when he was just a baby. His grandmother claims he “entered the world with a smile. It became further cemented as what everyone calls him when he told his kindergarten teacher that’s his name.“

Before the NIL rule change in July 2021, the Crimson Tide member’s name switched from Ga’Quincy McKinstry to Kool-Aid McKinstry on Alabama’s official roster. It is unclear whether this was due to the fact that college athletes would be able to profit off on their Name, Image, and Likeness later that summer. 

Regardless, it worked in the athlete’s favor.

247Sports called McKinstry the No. 1 CB from the class of 2021. They also handed him a 5 star grade, highlighting his quick feet and impressive vertical ability.

Double Threat

The athlete originally selected Alabama in hopes of playing both football and basketball. During his first year at the school, McKinstry practiced with both teams. However, it quickly became clear that football was his main focus. 

Hopefully he can follow in Bryce Young’s shoes and utilize NIL deals to boost his chances in the 2024 Draft. Starting QB for the team last year, Young was just selected as the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft.

“He has the ability to process and put his face on you,” defensive coordinator for Alabama, Pete Golding says about McKinstry. “So if we can get that consistent, he’s going to be a really good player.”

Saturday Down South

Clearly, possessing the skills plus a unique nickname is a good combination for college football players to reach more success. It would not be surprising if players started giving themselves nicknames like “Rolex” in hopes of a similar deal.

In the meantime, keep an eye out for McKinstry. He has the skills and the personality to take his career to the NFL.

Plus, who knows what kind of deals will arise with Kool-Aid or other brands if he is selected in next year’s draft.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated in what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.