Javon Kinlaw Mike Ehrmann/GettyImages

Commanders might have cracked the code to finally unleash Javon Kinlaw

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Ryan McCafferty | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 1:30 PM ET

The Washington Commanders' offseason consisted of a multitude of headline-grabbing moves. After all, the team looks to capitalize on its NFC Championship game appearance in 2024 by taking the next step toward Super Bowl contention.

Among Washington's biggest blockbusters were trading for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil and acquiring 2021 first-team All-Pro Deebo Samuel Sr. One move that ended up somewhat flying under the radar, despite the lofty price tag attached, was the signing of defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw.

Commanders reveal master plan to maximize Javon Kinlaw's potential

The Commanders signed the former first-round pick to a three-year deal worth $45 million and $30 million guaranteed in hopes that he will anchor Washington's defensive line. It's a hefty financial commitment for a player of his caliber, but defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. has a way he believes Kinlaw can live up to the hype.

Commanders DC Joe Whitt JR. said they'll use Javon Kinlaw all over the line. Said he'll be tough for TE's to block if/when outside. Can be a problem inside. "He's an intriguing young man to work with."
— John Keim (@john_keim) June 4, 2025

It's no secret that Washington's defensive line is going to require some creativity to perform at an acceptable standard in 2025. Kinlaw will likely spend most of his snaps lining up at defensive tackle alongside Daron Payne, who is in a make-or-break season following the departure of his longtime running mate Jonathan Allen.

On the edge, Washington's situation is even bleaker. Some combination of veteran journeymen Dorance Armstrong Jr., Clelin Ferrell, Deatrich Wise Jr., and Jacob Martin will be asked to be the primary contributors, barring someone unexpectedly emerging or the Commanders making another signing.

For that reason, giving Kinlaw some run at the defensive end spot might not be a bad idea at all.

He could be a mismatch against opposing tight ends while allowing Washington to fill the interior with additional run-stoppers. Last year's second-round pick Johnny Newton had impressive moments as a rookie, and Eddie Goldman is another veteran free agent signing who figures to play a key reserve role.

The Commanders will also likely experiment with moving their linebackers around in Whitt's scheme. Specifically, the inspirational Frankie Luvu.

Last season, Washington's best pass-rushers were Luvu and Dante Fowler Jr. The latter led the team in sacks while playing a versatile reserve role in which he split snaps between the linebacker and defensive line positions. He's no longer around after signing for the Dallas Cowboys in free agency.

Needless to say, there should be plenty of room to try different combinations in the Commanders' front seven this season. Washington largely neglected one of its biggest needs throughout both free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft and will need to be creative to find answers. Experimentation is key.

If he's utilized the right way, they just might come in the form of Kinlaw.