Christian Wilkins Signing With Raiders On $110 Million Deal
The Las Vegas Raiders are signing free-agent defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million deal that includes $84.75 million in guarantees. Wilkins became the top free-agent interior defensive lineman on the market after Chris Jones and Justin Madubuike reached extensions with the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, respectively. The 26-year-old posted a career-high nine sacks in 2023, and he'll now join forces will All-Pro edge rusher Maxx Crosby in the Sin City. Expect Raiders opponents to be under pressure in 2024.
The Miami Dolphins won't use the franchise tag on standout defensive tackle Christian Wilkins this offseason, according to sources, meaning the long-time pillar of Miami's defense will become a free agent next week. Regardless of position, Wilkins will be one of the top free agents available on the open market after recording 65 tackles (38 solo), a career-high nine sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 23 QB hits, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries in 17 regular-season starts in 2023, his fifth season in Miami. The 28-year-old pass-rusher could still re-sign with the Dolphins, but they are going to face plenty of competition for his services. On top of being a strong pass-rush presence, Wilkins is also consistent as a run-stopper, making him even more attractive.
All options for impending free-agent defensive tackle Christian Wilkins are on the table for the Miami Dolphins, but several league sources say that he's unlikely to receive the franchise tag. That would put a bit-time tackle, who had 63 tackles and nine sacks in 2023, on the open market next week. The Houston Texans are a team to watch, as they have ample salary cap space, a quarterback early in his rookie deal and a playoff roster. There will be several teams in the mix for Wilkins, though, including the Cleveland Browns, who could be looking to strengthen an already impressive defense with a versatile defensive tackle. The 28-year-old Wilkins finished the year with a whimper, but he's a nose tackle on the rise. The franchise tag in 2024 would pay him a hefty $19.7 million.
Dolphins Exercise Fifth-Year Option On Christian Wilkins
The Miami Dolphins are exercising the fifth-year option on defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. The former Clemson Tiger was selected 13th overall by the team in 2019. He notched career-highs in both tackles (89) and sacks (4.5) last year. According to Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network, the Dolphins see Wilkins as a foundational player due to his energy and work ethic.
The Miami Dolphins selected Clemson defensive tackle Christian Wilkins with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft. He becomes the second Clemson defensive lineman to go in the first round this evening behind Clelin Ferrell, who went to the Raiders at No. 4. Wilkins might've been Clemson's best defensive lineman, though, and he can do amazing things for his size. Wilkins can move laterally and has excellent speed and is versatile in different defensive schemes.
