Kool-Aid McKinstry real name: Why Alabama star goes by unique nickname

We've all seen college football "All-Name Lists" that highlight the best names in the sport. They almost always include names like Oklahoma's General Booty, FIU's Rowdy Beers, and Tennessee's Squirrel White. But most — even Auburn fans — can agree that few names are as iconic as Kool-Aid McKinstry.

The Alabama cornerback is known not just for his moniker, but also his skill. McKinstriy was a First-Team All-American, semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, and crucial contributor to the Crimson Tide's Rose Bowl team last season.

Now, he's taking the next step. After three years in Tuscaloosa, McKinstry declared for the NFL Draft. He's labeled as one of the top cornerbacks in the class and expected to be drafted in the first round.

Still, fans and rivals often wonder what his real name is. After all, someone isn't usually named after a beverage. The Sporting News has the answers, explaining McKinstry's real name and how his nickname, "Kool-Aid," came to be.

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What is Kool-Aid McKinstry's real name?

McKinstry was born as Ga'Quincy, but from the moment his grandmother laid eyes on him, McKinstry became known as Kool-Aid.

"I told his mom, 'Look at this boy with this big Kool-Aid smile on his face,'" Brenda McKinstry told the Tuscaloosa News. Rather than crying or causing a fuss when he was born, the Alabama star came out smiling, reminding his grandmother of the Kool-Aid man. The name stuck. He went by Kool-Aid at school, long before he moved to Tuscaloosa.

"Never did I think that nickname would be big like it is,” Brenda said. “I didn’t expect that name would get you somewhere, or that name is going to be a household name like the Kool-Aid drink. I never thought that."

In August of 2021, the NCAA allowed the use of NIL. Just 48 hours after the ruling, McKinstry signed with Kool-Aid drink brand. That same year, he legally changed his name from Ga'Quincy to Kool-Aid. He's been officially known by the nickname ever since.

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Kool-Aid McKinstry NFL mock draft

McKinstry is a top prospect in the 2024 draft and expected to go in the mid-to-late first round. Either way, he's one of the best in his position and should have a strong rookie season.

Here's a look at the top cornerbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft, according to Tyler Forness.

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