Videos are auto-populated by an affiliate. This site has no control over the videos that appear above.
On Friday, ahead of the second day of the 2023 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers exercised the fifth-year option on wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, a decision that shouldn't come as a surprise. On Friday night, after the second and third rounds of the draft were complete, general manager John Lynch revealed that the 49ers would not be doing the same thing for defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw.
The injury-plagued Kinlaw is entering the fourth and final year of his rookie contract, and it's looking likely to be his last with the 49ers. The fifth-year option would have guaranteed Kinlaw $10.5 million in 2024, per OverTheCap.com. However, it does not impact the amount Kinlaw is guaranteed from his 2023 base salary, as the entire $2.7 million amount was already fully guaranteed.
"I talked with Javon," Lynch told reporters, explaining the decision. "Still looking for great things from Javon. Javon's having an outstanding offseason. He's in a great place and he's excited about what's to come as are we for him."
Kinlaw, 25, has only appeared in 10 games over the past two seasons and recorded only 1.5 sacks since the 49ers made him the No. 14 overall draft pick in 2020. He has failed to live up to his first-round status when he has been on the field. Kinlaw's 31.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus for the 2022 season (including the playoffs) was the lowest on the team.
John Lynch: 49ers still targeting Dre Greenlaw's return against Rams
By David Bonilla
Dec 6
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch provided an update on linebacker Dre Greenlaw during his appearance on KNBR Friday morning, offering insight into the defender's recovery progress.
The 49ers opened Greenlaw's practice window on November 27. While he won't suit up...
John Lynch urges must-win mentality as 49ers fight to keep slim playoff hopes alive
By David Bonilla
Dec 10
San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch joined Bay Area radio station KNBR on Tuesday morning, expressing his gratitude for the unwavering support from fans at Levi's Stadium during Sunday's 38-13 victory over the Chicago Bears, despite the team's struggles earlier in...
49ers GM John Lynch addresses Deebo Samuel's struggles amid social media denial
By David Bonilla
Dec 10
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel has struggled to replicate the statistical success of his breakout 2021 season. Samuel racked up 1,770 scrimmage yards and 14 total touchdowns that year, earning a massive contract extension. His career-high 1,405 receiving yards...
Schefter comments on Kyle Shanahan's and John Lynch's futures with 49ers
By David Bonilla
Dec 2
The San Francisco 49ers endured another disheartening loss Sunday night, falling to the Buffalo Bills and dropping to 5-7 on the season. With their playoff hopes dwindling, questions are mounting about the direction of the team and the job security of head coach Kyle Shanahan...
