49ers training camp: What we learned with Week 2 in the books

What we learned from 49ers training camp: Javon Kinlaw might be living up to his potential

Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw hasn’t exactly lived up to his first-round billing as a replacement for former team-favorite DeForest Buckner, but in fairness, there have been extenuating circumstances for him.

In Kinlaw’s rookie year two years ago, the defensive line fell apart around him, and he was unable to make an impact on the field like he could have. Last season, injuries completely sapped his year and he couldn’t hit the ground running.

He was a little late getting on the field this training camp, but Kinlaw looks much better than his previous two seasons. He has an exceptionally talented defensive line around him, and he looks the healthiest he’s ever been.

Kinlaw has looked especially good in the 1-on-1 pass-rush drills, beating defenders regularly and getting to the quarterback. Kinlaw showed good pass-rushing potential at South Carolina, and he’s showing that on the field now.

Kinlaw looks primed to have a breakout season if the stars fully align around him. For the first time in his career, it looks like they finally have.