Why the 49ers Should Re-Sign Javon Kinlaw

Javon Kinlaw is set to become a free agent, but the 49ers should make sure that he isn't one for long.

A whopping 21 players are set to become free agents from the San Francisco 49ers.

Only some players will be back on the 49ers, while others will not be retained or find better deals. One of those free agents that the 49ers should definitely re-sign is defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw. 

2023 was an impressive year from Kinlaw where he finally was able to finish an entire season. Injuries did not play a part at any point for him dating as far back as training camp. Clearly Kinlaw has found a way to mitigate those injuries and is starting to find his stride. The 49ers should bank on that "stride" of Kinlaw.

I think there is a decent chance that Kinlaw ascends in 2024, so whatever deal they sign him to will easily look like a bargain if he does. It's worth the shot to see if he does given how his arrow looks to finally be pointed upward. At the very least, they know they are bringing back a solid player who gives them what they need against the run and as a pass rusher. 

Re-signing him will most likely not prove costly. I would imagine a one-year deal worth $3 million with incentives will get it done, and I'd suspect Kinlaw would want to come back. He's finally putting it together, so it would be tough for him to want to potentially ruin that going elsewhere. A deal with Kinlaw makes so much sense.

The 49ers should also want to retain as much continuity on the defensive line as possible. A handful of players at the position are set to be free agents. It would be wise to bring at least a couple of them back with Kinlaw as one of them. Roll the dice on him for one more year and see if he doesn't come close to the player they envisioned when they drafted him four years ago.