The Washington Commanders didn't make many big splashes in free agency. Adam Peters opted to maintain the same formula of finding veterans on one-year deals who could provide short-term assistance. His one major financial outlay brought a fair share of criticism attached.
The Commanders saw something others didn't in defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw. His career might not have gone according to plan so far, but Peters thought his big-bodied capabilities could help Washington improve in the defensive trenches after Jonathan Allen's eventual release.
Kinlaw got a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed. Most analysts viewed this as an astonishing overpay based on his current career trajectory. These scathing assessments haven't gone unnoticed by the former first-round pick.
Peters was part of the San Francisco 49ers' front office that spent the No. 14 overall pick on Kinlaw. He remains supremely confident that the interior force can make a lasting contribution. Again, this hasn't gone unnoticed by the South Carolina graduate.
Javon Kinlaw wants to repay Commanders' faith after lucrative contract
Kinlaw is eager to repay the faith shown in him by the Commanders. He also clapped back at criticism regarding his contract, stating a belief that his production is getting better every year heading into another new challenge.
It's about the belief and that these people believe in me. They see the progression. Every year I've gotten better. I'll continue to get better.Javon Kinlaw via ESPN
One wouldn't have expected anything less from someone with a big point to prove. However, not many New York Jets fans would hold a similar opinion after watching Kinlaw fluff his lines last time around.
Kinlaw was perceived as lackluster by most and a complete liability by others. Not even having a stud defensive lineman such as Quinnen Williams alongside him turned the tide. The Jets were never going to keep him around, with many analysts projecting another one-year, prove-it deal somewhere in the hope he finally put everything together.
The Commanders went one step further. They gave Kinlaw long-term financial security and bet big that this sort of environment could help him flourish. It's a big gamble, but one that has significant rewards attached if this confidence proves fruitful.
Washington has Daron Payne and Johnny Newton, so Kinlaw's role will allow the Commanders to have a potentially productive interior trio to rotate. The likes of Sheldon Day and Jalyn Holmes will bolster the depth chart, and acquiring another dynamic prospect from the college ranks couldn't be dismissed either.
Kinlaw will have more scrutiny on his shoulders than most. With more money comes increased expectations. He'll know that better than anyone, so having renewed focus and capitalizing on being part of Washington's exciting project with a sound locker room culture is essential.
If he can do that, the Commanders will get some bang for their buck. And as is always the case with signings like this, nobody will be moaning about the price tag if Kinlaw ends up becoming a legitimate difference-maker when competitive action resumes.
The jury is still out on that. But make no mistake, Kinlaw is highly motivated to silence his critics.
