Washington Commanders fans knew at the time that general manager Adam Peters overpaid for defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw. Most experts also came to this conclusion immediately, but the front-office leader believed there was still untapped potential.
Kinlaw underperformed as expected. He wasn't alone, but his price tag meant he was held to a higher standard. And rivals around the NFC East are still twisting the knife.
The Commanders gave Kinlaw a three-year, $45 million contract with $30 million in guaranteed money. This was extortionate based on his overall production since entering the league as a first-round pick out of South Carolina. For all the big talk and the bold promises, there was nothing much to encourage.
Eagles reporter mocks Commanders for desperate Javon Kinlaw overpay
Jimmy Kempski of Philly Voice rubbed salt into Commanders fans' wounds over Kinlaw's contract. He mocked Peters for making such a hefty commitment to someone he thought was undeserving. The analyst placed it at No. 2 among the division's worst contracts, behind only Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
"His lack of pass rush production aside, [Javon] Kinlaw has a hulking frame but had been an atrocious run defender throughout his five-year career.
"Kinlaw got overpaid on a one-year "prove it" deal worth $8 million with the Jets in 2024. He proved nothing, and the Commanders were like, "Hey, why don't you come play here for $45 million?" In his first season with the Commanders, Kinlaw had 43 tackles (only 5 for loss), 0 sacks, and just 3 QB hits despite playing 724 snaps."
The doubts around Kinlaw are growing. How he responds to this criticism and ridicule will go a long way toward determining his overall outlook in Washington.
Despite claims from some in the media, it doesn't make much sense to cut Kinlaw after just one season. The financial implications alone give him another shot, and there is hope he could improve as a 3-4 defensive end in Daronte Jones' new system. But the pressure has risen exponentially.
What comes next is down to Kinlaw. He's got the physical tools to be much more impactful, but it just hasn't come together consistently as yet. That has to change next season, or the Commanders will not be as forgiving in 2027.
Kinlaw is a resolute character. He believes the Commanders are ready to prove people wrong, and he's also looking to make the strides needed to repay the faith shown in him. But for a player with everything on the line, talk is cheap.
His performances when things matter in the regular season will tell fans everything they need to know.
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