Christian Wilkins Signs With Raiders
Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
The Miami Dolphins are looking to repeat their 11-6 2023 season, and will now have to do it without their star defensive tackle. On Monday, Christian Wilkins agreed to terms with the Las Vegas Raiders on a four-year deal worth up to $110 million.
The writing was on the wall since the Dolphins declined to use the franchise tag on Wilkins, given their salary cap woes. Still, the departure comes as a blow to the Dolphins, who now need to replace their first-round pick from 2019 and his absurd production.
The 6-foot-4, 310 lbs. tackle exploded into one of the league’s best pass rushers from the middle of the defensive line in 2023. He doubled his career-high sack total from 4.5 (in 2021) to 9.0, and nearly did the same thing with his quarterback hits, going from 13 in 2021 to 23 last season. He also deflected two passes and forced a fumble while revovering two.
While that kind of impact is going to be impossible to replace cheaply, the Dolphins seemed prepared – or perhaps resigned – to making this sacrifice. Head coach Mike McDaniel was asked whether he was hopeful of Wilkins’ return in February. “Yeah, I hope so. Don’t you?” he answered. “But I’m excited for Christian’s opportunity that he earned.”
With Emmanuel Ogbah and Raekwon Davis in free agency, as well, the only potential replacement the Dolphins have from last season, the Dolphins are potentially losing a massive percentage of their pass rush attack. Whether they can find bargains on the free agent market, or will turn their attention to the Draft, Miami will need to address these losses this spring.
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