Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB
Three of the 49ers’ defensive backs are nearing the end of their deals. While Ambry Thomas and Deommodore Lenoir are participating in the final year of their rookie contracts, Charvarius Ward, a veteran, is nearing the end of his contract with the organization. One of the top outside corners available in the 2024 NFL Draft is Kool-Aid McKinstry.
McKinstry tackles well in the run game, is good in press-man coverage, and possesses excellent lateral agility. With 32″ arm length and 8 1/2″ hands, he weighs 199 pounds and stands 5’11.5″.
Due to an injury (a Jones fracture), he was unable to compete in the NFL Combine; nonetheless, during his pro day, he recorded a 4.47-second 40-time, a 34.5″ vertical leap, and a 10’1″ broad jump.
McKinstry received an 88 PFF grade at the end of 2023. He made ten stops in 753 snaps and 28 total tackles. McKinstry gave up 16 receptions for 169 yards and three pass breakups while being targeted 36 times.
The 49ers could insert Deommodore into the slot and use Ward and McKinstry as the outside corners if they added Kool-Aid McKinstry to the cornerback group.
G, UConn’s Christian Haynes
Guard Christian Haynes is tough, strong, and quick off the ball. He has only allowed 48 pressures in five seasons with the Huskies, eight of which were sacks.
Haynes would start for the 49ers offensive line from the first day of play. Being 6’2″ is his only physical drawback, but it shouldn’t have an impact on his performance in the pros.
Haynes had an 80.2 overall grade (80.1 run blocking + 82.5 pass blocking) at the end of 2023, according to PFF.
Haynes, Spencer Burford, and Jon Feliciano will compete for playing time at right guard on the first day of the draft if the 49ers choose him.
