49ers training camp 2021: 4 biggest concerns from Week 1

No. 2: Javon Kinlaw isn’t taking that Year 2 leap yet

The Niners’ top pick from the 2020 draft, defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, had himself a so-so campaign his rookie year.

The individual stats, namely just 1.5 sacks, surely weren’t enough to suggest an immediate star in the making. But the physical attributes and raw talent surely were on display, and the hope was he’d translate his natural abilities into the kind of prolific player San Francisco was hoping for when Kinlaw was selected at No. 14 overall.

A big reason? Swelling in Kinlaw’s knee.

Related Story: 3 areas where Javon Kinlaw must improve in 2021

The San Francisco Chronicle’s Eric Branch broke down how this has been a potential setback problem for Kinlaw so far in training camp:

"Kinlaw also has been limited in training camp after he experienced swelling in his left knee last month. Both of Kinlaw’s knees were flagged by multiple teams as being at risk for arthritis at last year’s combine. As a rookie, he missed the final two games with a knee injury the 49ers termed a bone bruise. He had knee surgery in January that the team described as a “routine cleanup.” Kinlaw was limited in the first four practices, took part in team drills in the next two sessions and looked frustrated when he was a spectator during 11-on-11 work Wednesday."

Backup defensive tackle Kentavius Street has been getting the bulk of first-team reps in Kinlaw’s absence. And while it might be smart for the 49ers to take yet another precautionary measure with the former first-round pick, those on-field reps are going to be vital for Kinlaw’s maturation and development.

If the presumed injuries continue to be a problem, the Niners may not get anything close to a maximum return.