The 49ers spent the 14th overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft on defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, and after his first three seasons that looked like a mistake: Kinlaw just couldn't stay healthy, playing 24 games and missing 26 games over his first three NFL seasons.But this year Kinlaw has played in all three games for the 3-0 49ers, and he has made a big impact on their excellent defense. He says it's what he thought he could have been doing all along, if not for the injuries."I'm healthy, that plays a big part in it," Kinlaw said, via NBCSportsBayArea.com. "It's awesome just being out there as a whole situation."Teammate Nick Bosa says the 49ers knew Kinlaw would be a force if he could stay healthy."He's just been healthy," Bosa said. "And really good offseason of training so he's able to use the tools that he has. I think he's going to keep ascending."The 49ers did not pick up Kinlaw's fifth-year option, meaning he'll be a free agent in March. He's putting himself in a position where he'll be a sought-after player, if he can stay healthy for the rest of the year.
Javon Kinlaw finally healthy and making an impact for the 49ers
Published Sep 23, 2023 at 4:00 AM
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