Kinlaw has just 1.5 sacks to go with his 22 tackles, and four quarterback hits through 10 game appearances this season.
The 49ers are preparing to face the Los Angeles Rams this weekend, and Rams head coach Sean McVay can certainly see Kinlaw's potential.
"I think he's got a bright future," McVay told 49ers reporters via a conference call on Wednesday. "He's definitely been playing more consistently, snap in and snap out. He flashes. You see the ability.
"But I think understanding the techniques, the fundamentals that they want to play with snap in and snap out is something that you're starting to see, and he's a disruptive player. He's got great twitch. He's got great strength at the point of attack.
"You can see why he's a first-rounder and why he's going to be a great player in this league for a long time if he continues to grow and do what he's done his rookie year."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers restructure Javon Hargrave's contract, hinting at possible departure in 2025
Jason Fitzgerald of Over the Cap reports that the San Francisco 49ers have restructured the contract of injured defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, setting the stage for a potential parting of ways in 2025. "Per a league source, the 49ers recently restructured the contract of... -
Kyle Shanahan sends a clear message about 49ers future amid trade chatter
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed reporters following Sunday's dominant 38-13 victory over the Chicago Bears. Recent speculation surrounding Shanahan's future with the team was among the topics discussed. Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk had stirred the... -
49ers rookie Isaac Guerendo optimistic about foot injury
San Francisco 49ers rookie running back Isaac Guerendo remains optimistic about his injury status after exiting Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears with a potential foot sprain. Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the injury during his postgame press conference but didn't... -
49ers vs. Rams injury updates: Ji'Ayir Brown questionable to return
The San Francisco 49ers entered Thursday night's NFC West showdown against the Los Angeles Rams without key players, most notably left tackle Trent Williams, who is sidelined for the fourth straight game with an ankle injury. On defense, standout rookie safety Malik Mustapha...