Javon Kinlaw Joins Commanders, Poised to Bolster Defensive Line
Javon Kinlaw, a former first-round draft pick, is set to embark on a new chapter in his NFL career, signing a three-year contract with the Washington Commanders. The move marks a significant addition to the Commanders’ defensive line, particularly following the recent release of veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. Kinlaw’s arrival promises to inject talent and experience into a unit undergoing a period of transition and rebuilding.
The Commanders secured Kinlaw’s services with a deal worth $45 million over three years, including a substantial $30 million in guaranteed money. The agreement was reached on the first day of the league’s legal tampering period, signaling the Commanders’ eagerness to acquire the defensive lineman. This investment reflects the team’s belief in Kinlaw’s potential to contribute significantly to their defensive efforts in the coming seasons.
Kinlaw’s journey to Washington follows a single season with the New York Jets in 2024. Prior to his stint in the Big Apple, he spent four years with the San Francisco 49ers, the team that originally drafted him in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. During his time with the Jets, Kinlaw experienced a career resurgence, starting all 17 games at defensive tackle and posting career highs in both sacks and pressures. His 4.5 sacks and 25 pressures demonstrated his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and generate pressure on the quarterback.
The reunion with the Jets, which saw Kinlaw working under his former defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, proved to be beneficial. Saleh’s familiarity with Kinlaw’s strengths and weaknesses allowed him to be utilized effectively, maximizing his impact on the field. This experience undoubtedly played a role in elevating Kinlaw’s value and attracting interest from teams like the Commanders.
Kinlaw’s NFL career began with considerable hype and expectations. The San Francisco 49ers selected him with the 14th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, recognizing his potential as a disruptive force on the defensive line. However, his tenure with the 49ers was marked by inconsistency and injuries, hindering his ability to consistently perform at the level expected of a first-round pick. Despite these challenges, Kinlaw showcased flashes of brilliance, demonstrating the raw talent and athleticism that made him such a highly touted prospect.
Over his five seasons in the NFL, Kinlaw has accumulated 9.5 career sacks, seven passes defensed, and two forced fumbles. While these numbers may not fully reflect the potential many saw in him coming out of college, they offer a glimpse into his capabilities and highlight his ability to make plays.
The Commanders’ interest in Kinlaw is further underscored by the existing connection between him and Washington’s general manager, Adam Peters. Peters was part of the San Francisco 49ers’ front office when the team drafted Kinlaw in 2020. His familiarity with Kinlaw’s skillset, work ethic, and potential likely influenced the Commanders’ decision to pursue him in free agency. Peters’ firsthand knowledge of Kinlaw provides a level of comfort and confidence in the player’s ability to adapt to the Commanders’ defensive scheme and contribute to the team’s overall success.
The decision to release Jonathan Allen, a long-time anchor of the Commanders’ defensive line, was a difficult one. Allen had been a consistent and reliable performer for the team, and his departure created a void in both talent and leadership. However, the Commanders’ front office clearly believes that acquiring Kinlaw and potentially other defensive linemen will help to mitigate the loss and create a more balanced and versatile defensive unit.
The Commanders’ defense is undergoing a significant transformation, and the addition of Kinlaw represents a key step in that process. The team is looking to build a more aggressive and disruptive defensive front, capable of consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks and creating turnovers. Kinlaw’s athleticism and pass-rushing abilities make him a valuable asset in achieving these goals.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Kinlaw is also expected to bring a level of experience and professionalism to the Commanders’ locker room. Having been through the ups and downs of an NFL career, he can serve as a mentor to younger players and help to instill a winning culture. His presence could also contribute to the development of other defensive linemen, creating a more competitive and cohesive unit.
The Commanders’ investment in Kinlaw is a calculated risk, but one that they believe has the potential to pay off handsomely. If Kinlaw can stay healthy and continue to develop his skills, he could become a cornerstone of the Commanders’ defense for years to come. The team is banking on his talent, experience, and the familiarity that their general manager has with him to unlock his full potential and help them compete for championships.
The upcoming 2025 season will be a crucial one for both Javon Kinlaw and the Washington Commanders. It will be an opportunity for Kinlaw to prove that he can be a consistent and impactful player at the NFL level, and for the Commanders to demonstrate that they are building a team capable of contending for a playoff spot. The partnership between Kinlaw and the Commanders represents a new beginning for both parties, and the potential for success is certainly there. As Kinlaw dons the Commanders’ colors, the team’s fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can live up to the expectations and help lead the team to victory.
