Jets Saleh Seeking Free Agent Reunion with 49ers Defensive Tackle?

The New York Jets may look to a former pupil of head coach Robert Saleh for some much-needed help at defensive tackle: San Francisco 49ers free agent Javon Kinlaw.

With the start of NFL free agency fast approaching, the New York Jets will undoubtedly be looking for ways to upgrade their roster for the upcoming season.

After a 7-10 finish to their 2023 campaign, the Jets are hoping that a healthy Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, along with supporting talent on both sides of the ball, will be enough to entice players — who are hoping to win, while reclaiming some of their future market value — to accept a short-term, “prove-it” deal. 

One such player, according to a recent projection from Fox Sports, is San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw.

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“This is a bit of a shot in the dark. But maybe head coach Robert Saleh can pitch Kinlaw on a one-year deal that will improve his market,” wrote Fox Sports’ AFC East analyst Henry McKenna. “Kinlaw, a former first-round pick, was on the upswing at the end of his 2023 season but didn't demonstrate the high-level talent over his rookie contract to necessitate anything substantial.”

Following three standout collegiate seasons at South Carolina, Kinlaw joined the Niners as their first-round (No. 14 overall) selection in the 2020 NFL Draft. As a rookie, the 6-5, 319-pound tackle appeared in 14 games and started 12. He recorded 1.5 sacks, 33 total tackles, one interception, and four passes-defensed. For his efforts, he was selected to the PFWA All-Rookie team.  

Unfortunately, Kinlaw suffered an ACL injury in Sept. 2021, which would derail much of the progress he built during his rookie season. Over the next two seasons, he played in just 10 games, while registering only 12 total tackles and one quarterback hit. 

Unsurprisingly, the 49ers declined the fifth-year option of Kinlaw's rookie contract, making him a free agent in the 2024 offseason. The 26-year-old responded by appearing in all 17 games, while making six starts for the eventual NFC Champions. He finished the season with 3.5 sacks, 25 total tackles, and three passes defended.

High 5: Best Free-Agent Signings For Jets

While Kinlaw is likely to garner some attention on the open market, Jets head coach Robert Saleh may be able to use his powers of persuasion to convince him that New York is the right fit for his services this season. Having worked together in San Francisco during his rookie season in 2020, Saleh is well-versed in his strengths. 

The Jets also have a need at the position. Aside from All-Pro Quinnen Williams, the Jets face an uncertain future at defensive tackle with Quinton Jefferson, Al Woods, Solomon Thomas, Jayln Holmes all headed for free agency. 

The new NFL year is set to begin at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, preceded by a two-day legal tampering ready to kick off at noon ET Monday. 

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