Javon Kinlaw’s career with the 49ers didn’t quite go the way he – or anyone else – had hoped.

The No. 14 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft recorded just five sacks and seven tackles for loss in four seasons with San Francisco. The defensive tackle struggled with injuries, limiting him to just 10 total games in 2021 and 2022 after a promising rookie season.

This offseason, Kinlaw joined his former defensive coordinator Robert Saleh on the New York Jets. During a training camp press conference last month, Kinlaw spoke emotionally about his path to the NFL and his ability to maintain a positive attitude.

“I’m very religious. I talk to my mom a lot,” Kinlaw told reporters. “My mom and my family – they were the reason. I’ve had a lot of dark days and just being able to touch that grass – that’s a huge blessing.”

The 6’5″ and 325-pound lineman collapsed at the podium, a testament to the difficult path he has traveled to date. Kinlaw immigrated to the United States from Trinidad and Tobago at the age of two with his mother and brothers. They suffered homelessness during his early childhood.

“I’ve been through a lot,” Kinlaw continued, his emotions visible. “That’s all I can say. But I never gave up. A lot of people would have given up. But I never gave up.”

It’s an important reminder of the humanity of professional athletes, many of whom – like Kinlaw – struggle with the same issues as everyone else.

And while he may not have lived up to expectations in San Francisco, 49ers fans are certainly hoping he succeeds in a new environment alongside several other former members of the organization.

It won’t be long before Kinlaw faces his original team again, either. The Jets visit Levi’s Stadium on Sept. 9 for a Week 1 Monday Night Football matchup.

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