New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry has officially reclaimed a piece of his past, switching his jersey number to the familiar No. 1 he wore as a star at the University of Alabama. The change, now reflected on the team's official website, marks his fourth number in just three NFL seasons but finally delivers the digit he's been seeking.

McKinstry's journey to No. 1 saw him wear No. 14 as a rookie, No. 34 in the 2024 preseason, and No. 4 during his sophomore campaign last year. The number became available after fellow cornerback Alontae Taylor, who previously wore it, departed for the Tennessee Titans in free agency. For a player, a jersey number is more than fabric; it's an identity. As the legendary Deion Sanders famously said, "If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good."

That last part is particularly relevant for McKinstry. As a 2024 second-round pick, he becomes eligible for a contract extension after the 2026 season, with free agency looming in 2028. With former Saints corners Taylor and Paulson Adebo recently securing deals worth over $18 million per year on the open market, a strong 2025 season under new defensive play-caller Brandon Staley could position McKinstry for a lucrative early extension from New Orleans.

As for the No. 4 jersey McKinstry leaves behind? It has found a new home with backup quarterback Zach Wilson, who is no stranger to change, having worn multiple numbers with the Jets, Dolphins, and Broncos. For Wilson, focusing on his performance is undoubtedly the priority, but for McKinstry, slipping back into his college digits could provide a welcome boost of confidence as he looks to make his mark in a critical year.