Kinlaw’s patience paying off with increased role on 49ers’ D-line

SANTA CLARA — Making an impact on the field has been a long time coming for Javon Kinlaw, but the 49ers' hulking defensive tackle knew there was no option other than success. After being selected as the No. 14 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Kinlaw battled chronic knee injuries that held him back from reaching his full potential. Now, in his fourth season with the team, the South Carolina product is reaping the rewards of his hard work and diligence. "Not bragging about myself, but I think during one of my first interviews, I said I was going to be a good player," Kinlaw told NBC Sports Bay Area. "I believed it from the jump. When you believe something like that, and you work at it so hard, you have no choice but to come through." Through three games this season, Kinlaw is having his most productive campaign yet. According to Pro Football Focus, Kinlaw has recorded 10 total quarterback pressures which ranks him third on the team behind Nick Bosa (15) and Javon Hargrave (13). Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks noticed Kinlaw's work ethic immediately after his arrival in Santa Clara during the 2023 offseaon. The coach has been so impressed, that he caved to the lobbying of...