As a true freshman at Alabama in 2017, McKinney played in 13 games as a backup and special teams player.[4] As a starter in 2018, he had 73 tackles, two interceptions and three sacks.[5][6][7] He was named the defensive MVP of the 2018 Orange Bowl.[8] On January 4, 2020, McKinney announced he would skip his senior season and would enter the 2020 NFL Draft.[9]
McKinney was selected by the New York Giants in the second round (36th overall) of the 2020 NFL draft.[12] On September 6, 2020, McKinney was placed on injured reserve with a fractured foot.[13] He was activated on November 28.[14] On January 3, 2021, against the Dallas Cowboys, McKinney recorded his first career interception off quarterback Andy Dalton in the end zone with 1:24 remaining in the fourth quarter, helping the Giants defeat the Cowboys 23–19.[15]
2021
In Week 6 against the Los Angeles Rams McKinney intercepted two passes: one pass by quarterback Matthew Stafford, and the other by quarterback John Wolford, both of which were intended for wide receiver Cooper Kupp.[16] On November 3, 2021, the Giants announced that McKinney was in COVID protocol.[17] In Week 9 against the Las Vegas Raiders, McKinney recorded seven tackles and intercepted two passes from quarterback Derek Carr, returning one for a touchdown, solidifying a Giants win of 23–16.[18][19] He was named NFC Defensive player of the Week as a result for his performance.[20]
2022
During a Giants' Week 9 bye week, McKinney suffered a broken hand in an ATV accident, which sidelined him for multiple weeks.[21] He was subsequently placed on Reserve/Non-Football Injury list.[22] McKinney was activated on December 31.[23]
2023
McKinney, along with teammate Bobby Okereke, were the only two defenders in the NFL to not miss a snap the entire season.[24]
Green Bay Packers
2024
On March 14, 2024, McKinney signed a four-year, $67 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.[25]