Javon Kinlaw signs new contract with Washington Commanders

Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw has signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Washington Commanders, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Kinlaw is guaranteed $30 million. He played for the New York Jets last season, recording 40 tackles, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

Kinlaw earned $7.25 million in salary for his lone season with the Jets. Prior to his time in New York, Kinlaw began his career in San Francisco, where he played four seasons for the 49ers.

Kinlaw has battled knee injuries throughout his career. In 2021, the former South Carolina standout missed 16 games due to an ACL sprain. Kinlaw suffered the same injury in the following season and missed 11 games after undergoing season-ending surgery.

Thankfully, Javon Kinlaw has avoided injury the past two seasons and will look to remain healthy as he begins his stint with the Commanders. Washington is coming off a standout season. In their first year under head coach Dan Quinn, the Commanders made a run to the NFC Championship before falling to the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Commanders’ defense allowed 327.9 yards per game, ranking No. 13 in the NFL. Dante Fowler Jr. led the Commanders’ defensive front with 10.5 sacks. Now, Kinlaw will look to be another weapon in Washington’s defensive arsenal.

Pittsburgh Steelers nearing deal with Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly close to a deal with Aaron Rodgers in free agency, according to Gerry Dulac. With Justin Fields testing his market, the Steelers pivoted.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter previously reported Rodgers would be the new option should Fields look at his options. According to Dulac, Rodgers and Sam Darnold were the main free agent targets.

“He has emerged as an option for the Pittsburgh Steelers in light of the fact that they can’t close out a deal with Justin Fields, who seems to have some degree of interest, it’s hard to quantify exactly how much in going to the New York Jets,” Schefter said on Get Up.

“So we’re waiting for the quarterback carousel to spin. Fields could go to Pittsburgh, which would block out Rodgers and Wilson. He could go to the New York Jets which would free up a spot in Pittsburgh for Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson. These are some of the moves that will play out today.”

Rodgers spent two years with the Jets after coming over from the Green Bay Packers, but his first season in New York ended on his first drive of the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury. In 2024, he threw for 3,897 yards and 28 touchdowns, along with 11 interceptions – marking two straight full seasons with at least 10 picks.

On3’s Nick Kosko also contributed to this report.