ESPN NEWS: Alabama Standouts McKinstry, Arnold, and Braswell Declare for 2024 NFL Draft

Alabama cornerbacks Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold have announced their plan to enter the 2024 NFL draft, effectively ending their collegiate careers with the Crimson Tide. McKinstry made the announcement on Instagram, while Arnold’s decision was confirmed by sources to ESPN.

McKinstry and Arnold established themselves as one of the country’s top cornerback tandems throughout the recently finished season. ESPN expert Mel Kiper ranks McKinstry as the third-best cornerback in the upcoming draft, while Arnold is placed fifth. Both players were named Associated Press first-team All-Americans, with Arnold leading the Crimson Tide with five interceptions.
Linebackers Chris Braswell and Dallas Turner, as well as offensive tackle JC Latham, are joining McKinstry and Arnold in their NFL pursuits. Braswell announced his decision on social media, thanking the University of Alabama for helping him achieve his goals, which included winning a national title and completing his degree. He was second on the team in sacks and is rated the third-best outside linebacker in the draft by Kiper.

Latham, a two-year starter at right tackle, thanked Coach Nick Saban and the coaching staff for their dedication to his progress both on and off the field. Kiper rated Latham as the fourth-best offensive tackle in the league. Turner, Kiper’s second-ranked outside linebacker, revealed his intention to turn pro following Michigan’s Rose Bowl loss.

However, Alabama’s starting linebacker Deontae Lawson and starting safety Malachi Moore have assured coaches that they intend to return for the following season. Lawson, who finished second on the team in total tackles, and Moore, a versatile defensive back who plays the “star” role in the secondary, both want to see the Crimson Tide’s success continue.