Both of the New Orleans Saints’ most significant offseason defensive additions are out with injury. Defensive end Chase Young underwent surgery for a neck injury that he sustained throughout the 2023 season, while rookie cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry suffered a Jones fracture in his foot.
On Wednesday, Saints coach Dennis Allen issued an update on both players’ current status.
Young
“He’s here every day and attends all of the meetings. When we’re out here at practice, he’s working on his rehabilitation and what he’s capable of accomplishing. I see a guy who is extremely motivated to have a successful year. I believe he has been on the right track with his healing thus far. We’ll probably get another update on where he is in a week or two. Probably will offer a little clearer picture of when we anticipate he might return. But he’s doing all we ask of him, he’s very motivated, and he wants to be a part of this company and squad.”
Back in March, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Young’s neck injury was likely to sideline him “into training camp,” and he is expected to return before the season begins. Young signed a one-year, $13 million contract with New Orleans in March.
McKinstry
“I believe there is a potential we will see him next week. I don’t imagine we’ll see him in any team projects next week. But I believe he might be out here, working on certain walkthroughs and specific projects. I think his progress is good.”
Allen predicted McKinstry would return to the field in June, after the team chose him 41st overall in April. In late May, he signed a four-year contract worth $9.1 million, with $7.2 million guaranteed.
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