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The Washington Commanders made a splash attempt by signing Von Miller. And they have a player under major pressure to perform this season. Also, here is one surprising Commanders player who could make or break their 2025 NFL season.
It may be scary to Commanders’ fans, considering some of the negative things that have been said about this player. But if the Commanders are going to compete in the NFC East, they will need strong play from free-agent signee Javon Kinlaw.
It’s not that Kinlaw needs to be an All-Pro or even play at a Pro Bowl level. But he needs to be consistent and dependable in the middle of the Commanders’ defensive line.
Kinlaw brings a strong attitude to the situation, something that fits into the Dan Quinn atmosphere. He knows how to fight through adversity, according to commanders.com.
“To his credit, he fought through and came back even better, which was really impressive,” Peters said. “And how much he played two years ago in San Francisco and how much he played last year, those are like his first two years, in essence. And he’s got the hunger to get better and better. We like that just as much as anything about him.
“He can be 350 and be chiseled. He’s a freak. It’s unbelievable. I’ve seen him when he was as low as 275 in San Francisco and then as high as 330-plus last year with the Jets. So, he can play at any weight.”
Most of the criticism aimed at Kinlaw comes from looking at his numbers. They focused on what he hasn’t been able to accomplish. But Peters is betting on Kinlaw erasing all of his career highs. Kinlaw will need to do that to impact the Commanders the way his salary says he should.
Getting a chance to work with defensive line coach Darryl Tapp could help Kinlaw turn his career around. Tapp coached Kinlaw in San Francisco, and Kinlaw said he’s happy to be under his guidance again, according to commanders.com.
“Coming from a guy who actually knows me pretty well, even outside of the game of football, it’s always a beautiful thing,” Kinlaw said. “He knows what he’s getting when it comes to me. I’m excited, for sure, because he brings a lot of energy.”
Tapp provided an open door for Kinlaw to sign with the Commanders. Kinlaw said it made his decision easy.
“That’s what you need on them dog days,” Kinlaw said. “You need someone that’s gonna help you out.
“These people, they believe in me over here. They see the progression. Every year, I’m looking to get better. Every year, I’ve gotten better. I’m gonna continue to get better. And I’m just happy that it’s here that I get to showcase that.”
Washington’s defense as a whole will likely determine how far the team can go...
