Christian Wilkins
’ time in
Las Vegas
was cut short.
The
Raiders
shockingly decided to release the standout defensive tackle on Thursday, the Raiders announced. Wilkins
signed a four-year, $110 million contract with the team in March 2024
.
They
released a statement
regarding the matter:
“We have decided that it is in the best interests of the organization to move on from Christian Wilkins and he has been informed of his release from the team. This franchise has a Commitment to Excellence on and off the field. With no clear path or plan for future return to play from Christian, this transaction is necessary for the entire organization to move forward and prepare for the new season.”
The decision to release Wilkins comes due to a dispute over his foot injury,
according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport
, who noted the Raiders wanted him to have surgery, but Wilkins “declined after several opinions.”
Wilkins
underwent surgery for a Jones fracture in his foot
last October after he suffered the injury in Week 5.
Rapoport reported
there’s also expected to be a fight
about the guaranteed money.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter added
that the Raiders were able to void the remaining $35.2 million in June.
A grievance was filed by Wilkins.
When Wilkins signed his contract, it included $84.75 million in guaranteed money.
The Springfield native earned himself a nice payday after having his
best season in 2023
with the Miami Dolphins. The 29-year-old was one of six defensive tackles to amass nine sacks, which was a career high for Wilkins. He also had 23 quarterback hits and 58 quarterback pressures.
In five games with the Raiders, Wilkins amassed 2.0 sacks and 17 total tackles.
Wilkins will now become a free agent.
