Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw never quite found his footing with the San Francisco 49ers after they took in him Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Granted, there were flashes of brilliance here and there. But, either because of injuries or other factors, the former South Carolina Gamecock just didn't pan out to desired expectations, leading to the Niners denying his fifth-year option and him subsequently departing via free agency in 2024.
That led to a so-so lone season with the New York Jets before cashing in on a lucrative three-year, $45 million contract with the Washington Commanders, reuniting with general manager Adam Peters, who was in San Francisco's front office back when the defensive tackle was originally drafted.