No idea!
But, I do think McKinstry is a really high level prospect. Consider:
-2021: played in 15 games as a true freshman (~450 snaps) in the SEC and did well
-2022: entrenched starter with 16 PBU and 1 INT, 2nd Team All American
-2023: entrenched starter with 7 PBU, 1st Team All American;
zero penalties (targets dropped from 80 in 2022 to 39 in 2023)
This last season, QB's were 19/39 into his coverage (48%) for 205 yards, 1 TD, 4 PBU, 73.1 Passer Rating.
For his career, 70/146 (48%) for 800 yards, 3 TD, 2 INT, 21 PBU, 66.0 Passer Rating.
Over 5'11" and right around 200 lbs, 32" arms, and ran a 4.47 on a jones fracture with a truly elite 10 yard split. Skilled punt returner, which is a good indicator of integrated athleticism.
Plays hurt and didn't miss a game during his three seasons at Alabama. One of the last Saban-coached defensive backs that will be available to the league-- has the reputation of possessing a high football IQ.
Reliable tackler and strong ball skills (in terms of turning, finding the ball-- not catching it
![Smile :) :)](/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/smile.png)
).
Versatile! Capable in zone coverage, very good in man coverage, good in run defense and against screens, etc.
Overall: You've got a good athlete with great size at a premium position who can do absolutely anything Hafley might want from an outside corner and was very good for three straight seasons in the SEC. Seems that he didn't quite live up to the hype from his 2022 season, which may have something to do with playing hurt, but if he had, we aren't talking about him being on the board at #25. He was still very good, and you just don't find many college corners who have been coached like him and have man/zone versatility like his.
I think Lassiter is probably a more limited athlete and Tampa has the reputation of being a zone corner who will likely struggle in man coverage. I could see Melton being as good or better than him in time (i.e. he has the potential), but he definitely was not as good in college.
If you look at the consensus board and ignore the top 16 as highly unlikely to be available, I like the idea of drafting McKinstry as much or more than anyone in this class.