Alabama defensive backs Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold will enter the 2024 NFL Draft, according to ESPN’s Chris Low, while fellow defensive back Malachi Moore and linebacker Deontae Lawson have indicated that they will return for the 2024 season.
McKinstry and Arnold have the potential to become a first-round duo at cornerback, ranking 18th and 28th respectively in Dane Brugler’s most recent 2024 NFL Draft big board. McKinstry was a three-year starter, a two-time All-SEC selection and a first-team All-American in 2023. Teams rarely tested McKinstry, one of the best man coverage corners in the country this season. He’s set to be an upper first-round pick this spring.
On the other side of the field, Arnold’s ascension was one of the biggest surprises of Alabama’s season and a catalyst for the Crimson Tide’s SEC championship. Arnold led Alabama in interceptions (5) and pass deflections (12) while playing boundary corner and slot corner at certain points in the season. There was speculation about a potential return for 2024, but Arnold’s production, versatility and expected testing numbers are expected to elevate his stock during the draft process.
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What the returns mean for Alabama
Lawson and Moore are big returnees for Alabama’s 2024 defense and arguably the biggest leaders on that side of the ball. Lawson settled into the role of middle linebacker and defensive signal caller this season and flashed potential throughout. Despite missing three games and being limited in others due to an ankle injury, Lawson finished second on the team in tackles (67). He’s a strong pass rusher and run defender, and another year in Alabama’s system will refine him into a top linebacker prospect in the 2025 Draft cycle.
Moore, who is returning for a fifth season, has been described by coaches and teammates as one of the best leaders and on-field communicators on the team. Previously limited by injuries, Moore played a healthy 2023 season and was impactful with 52 tackles, five pass deflections and one interception. His versatility make him a strong candidate to retain his starting position at Star or move back to safety next to rising sophomore Caleb Downs. Wherever he plays, Moore’s retention stabilizes Alabama’s secondary, and another healthy season should elevate his draft stock. With Moore, Downs and fifth-year Trey Amos returning at cornerback, the skeleton of Alabama’s starting secondary looks promising. The biggest competition will take place at the other boundary cornerback spot.
(Photo: Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images)
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