New Jets’ Defender Doesn’t Hold Back On Team’s Playoff Chances

The New York Jets have made some big signings this offseason, like bringing in offensive tackle Tyron Smith and wide receiver Mike Williams.

However, they have also made some under-the-radar moves, such as landing defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw.

Not only is Kinlaw excited to play in New York (well, New Jersey), but he thinks the Jets have a great chance of making the playoffs next season.

“I know what it’s like in those [playoff] games, money-wise especially,” Kinlaw said, via Jack Bell of the Jets’ official team website. “I know what it’s like — the physicality, the energy. And I can only imagine the energy, what it’s going to be like in MetLife. So I want to go back. I feel like this team has got everything it needs to make a push to the playoffs. So, I’m looking forward to it.”

Kinlaw would certainly know a thing or two about playing in big games, as he just played in the Super Bowl as a member of the San Francisco 49ers.

The 26-year-old, who played his collegiate football at the University of South Carolina, was selected by the 49ers with the 14th overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft.

He played in 14 games during his rookie campaign, registering 33 tackles, 1.5 sacks, an interception, four passes defended and a defensive touchdown.

Injuries then limited Kinlaw to just 10 games between 2021 and 2022, but this past season, he enjoyed a breakout year of sorts, appearing in every contest and posting 25 tackles and 3.5 sacks.

Has Kinlaw lived up to expectations as a first-round pick? Not necessarily, but if he can remain healthy in New York, he definitely has an opportunity to build on what he did in 2023.

The Jets went just 7-10 this past year and have not made the playoffs since January 2011, representing the longest active postseason drought in the NFL.

We’ll see if Kinlaw can help Gang Green break that dubious streak in 2024.