Alabama lost one of its best players during its thrilling 27-24 win over Georgia in the SEC championship game in CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, who sustained a concussion in the second half.
McKinstry, the Crimson Tide’s star junior, left Saturday’s title game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta after being attended to on the field and did not return. UA coach Nick Saban confirmed the injury in his post-game remarks, and said McKinstry has entered concussion protocol.
“We’ll see how bad it is,” Saban said.
McKinstry has been one of coach Nick Saban’s best and most important players this season, with six pass breakups on defense.
He has also been Alabama’s primary punt returner, with 14 returns for 86 yards over the course of this season, although freshman Caleb Downs has taken over return duties over the last two games..
McKinstry made the USA TODAY Sports Network all-SEC team this season and is widely regarded as one of the best defensive back prospects for the 2024 NFL Draft. Pro Football Focus has McKinstry as its No. 12 overall prospect and No. 1 cornerback.
Trey Amos took McKinstry’s place. Georgia immediately targeted Amos following McKinstry’s exit, but the transfer from Louisiana forced an incompletion on the throw. Amos later broke up a pass that he nearly intercepted,
