NFL analyst launches scathing attack on Commanders' polarizing free-agent deal

The Washington Commanders have their sights set on the 2025 NFL Draft. But one polarizing free-agent signing continues to receive widespread criticism around the media.

Adam Peters built plenty of kudos during his time as general manager so far. He trusts the people around him and his personnel evaluations. Whether it's those already around, free-agent arrivals, or draft prospects, there have been very few misses from the front-office leader to date.

That said, there were more than a few eyebrows raised around the league when the Commanders signed defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw to a three-year, $45 million deal with $30 million guaranteed. This was instantly perceived as a huge overpay, but Peters is confident the move can bear fruit within a more stable environment.

Kinlaw is a physical presence. The Commanders wanted to get bigger and more imposing in the defensive trenches to better counteract the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line strengths. He knows the player well after scouting him thoroughly and watching his progress on the San Francisco 49ers. There's a belief in the South Carolina graduate despite things not going well with the New York Jets last time around.

Commanders' criticism for Javon Kinlaw's whopping contract continues

That didn't stop Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated from adding his name to the long list of those opposed to the move. The analyst thought the Commanders would have been better off waiting to draft Jonathan Allen's replacement, although he acknowledged the former first-round pick's athletic attributes are difficult to give up on entirely.

This deal was worse than the [Grady] Jarrett signing, because [Javon] Kinlaw has never proved himself to be a consistent starter. The 2020 first-round pick of the 49ers was a disappointment over his four seasons in San Francisco. But maybe GM Adam Peters should get the benefit of the doubt because he drafted Kinlaw with the 49ers and might have noticed a player turning a corner during his lone season with the Jets. It’s hard to give up on Kinlaw’s physical gifts, but he’s shown minimal progress in five seasons. He’s an average pass rusher and struggles against the run. The Commanders probably would have been better off waiting for the draft to find a replacement for Jonathan Allen.Gilberto Manzano

Peters and Kinlaw have heard the skeptics in full force. What's important, especially from the player's perspective, is ignoring the outside noise and doing what's necessary to help the Commanders go on another deep postseason run.

Kinlaw's already outlined his desire to drop some weight. That will help his explosiveness and ability to handle significant reps. The Commanders also have Daron Payne and Johnny Newton, so rotating this trio is the best way to keep everyone fresh and firing on all cylinders.

Nobody can deny the Commanders spent more than projected on Kinlaw. He's not lived up to his pre-draft billing as yet, but Washington wanted to get ahead of any other willing suitors. To do that, you generally have to pay above the going rate.

The onus is now on Kinlaw to repay this faith. If he can do this and the Commanders' defensive front improves, nobody will be speaking about what it cost to bring him on board.