Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry is highly regarded as a top cornerback prospect in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft, but according to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, he may not be the best choice for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round. Ballentine suggested that the Steelers focus on improving their offense at the 20th overall pick rather than selecting McKinstry.
Ballentine emphasized that the Steelers, who ranked 10th in passer rating allowed last season, already have a strong cornerback rotation with Joey Porter Jr., Patrick Peterson, and Levi Wallace. The team struggled offensively, ranking 28th in scoring and 23rd in EPA per play due in part to deficiencies in the offensive line.
Rather than choosing McKinstry, Ballentine believes the Steelers should target upgrades at left tackle and center in the draft. He mentioned prospects like Amarius Mims and Jackson Powers-Johnson as better options given the depth of talent available in this draft class.
McKinstry established himself as one of college football’s standout cornerbacks in the 2023 season, earning first-team All-America honors from various media outlets. Throughout his tenure at Alabama, he tallied impressive stats with 23 pass defenses, 2 interceptions, 93 total tackles (including 5 tackles for loss), and 2 sacks.
Ballentine’s main argument is that the Steelers should focus on improving their offense with their No. 20 pick, rather than specifically avoiding McKinstry. The Steelers have struggled offensively in recent years, ranking no higher than 23rd since 2018. Ballentine suggests targets like Amarius Mims and Jackson Powers-Johnson for the Steelers to consider. Addressing the offensive line with prospects like Graham Barton, J.C. Latham, and Troy Fautanu could be beneficial for Pittsburgh. By finding a starting right tackle at No. 20, the Steelers could potentially move Broderick Jones back to left tackle and upgrade the O-line. Another position of need for the Steelers is center, as they currently do not have any on the 2024 roster. Despite McKinstry dealing with a foot injury, which is expected to heal by rookie minicamps, Ballentine does not see him as the best choice for the Steelers based on their offensive needs.
