Commanders Free Agent Signing Called ‘Biggest Bust’ originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Washington Commanders are doing everything they can to find a way to repeat their success from last year’s run to the conference championship game. … and more.

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The a best-way shortcut to accomplish that goal was to bring in proven talent once the offseason began. Washington did just that. Additions like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil were trade acquisitions that accented the efforts.

There’s another free agent acquisition Washington was able to bring in, but his arrival has been met with heavy criticism.

Bleacher Report writer Kristopher Knox listed Washington’s signing of defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw as the organization’s biggest bust this offseason.

“Simply put, the Washington Commanders probably overpaid to land defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw. The 2020 first-round pick had a good year with the Jets in 2024, finishing with 40 tackles and 4.5 sacks. However, Washington gave him high-end starter money,” Knox wrote. “The Commanders were eager to replace Jonathan Allen, who was released just before the start of free agency.

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“However, Kinlaw, who had just five tackles for loss and 12 QB pressures in 2024, is unlikely to play up to his $15 million-per-year contract.”

Kinlaw signed a three-year, $45 million deal with Washington this offseason. And to be frank? The former first-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets has not lived up to that status since his arrival in the NFL.

While he is coming off a career-high 4.5-sack season, Kinlaw was a mediocre player for Gang Green in 2024 as a run defender.

So …

If he can show more prowess not only as a pass rusher, but as an all-around contributor for a team with Super Bowl dreams, he could prove worthy of his large contract.

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But the nasty word “bust” aside … it’s a tall order for a player who has struggled to do that throughout his career.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 13, 2025, where it first appeared.