HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — With a game as prolific, and a name as iconic, as Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry's, you knew it wouldn't be long for some type of merchandising deal to come through since Friday night's trade-up of McKinstry to the New Orleans Saints in the NFL Draft
Ga'Quincy ''Kool-Aid" McKinstry, so-named because of a smile that was present right from the cradle, as the family line puts it, will be included on packages of his nickname-sake drink mix. KraftHeinz Foods announced mere hours after Friday's draft that McKinstry will appear on a limited edition run of a flavor called "Black Cherry Blitz."
Images of the packet design show spokesvessel Kool-Aid Man of "OHH YEAH!" fame taking a backseat to McKinstry holding a football. His signature also appears over his name. Kool-Aid (the drink) also says it will be preparing a welcome sign for Kool-Aid (the football player) outside the Superdome in the near future.
According to his prospect profile on NFL.com, McKinstry is described as more of a pure cover man than a playmaker, but his poise, intelligence and athleticism should lead him toward becoming a good outside corner with scheme versatility.
McKinstry started all 14 games for the Crimson Tide last season, and recorded 32 tackles – two for a loss – and seven pass breakups.
Saints quarterback – and tight end – Taysom Hill announced McKinstry's selection at the draft podium in Detroit Friday night just moments after head coach Dennis Allen made the call.
"Let's go to work, man," Allen told a joyously tearful McKinstry after asking if he was ready to be a member of the Saints.
Details on how customers can obtain packets of McKinstry's Kool-Aid mix have yet to be announced.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.