Christian Wilkins has been a standout defensive lineman for the Miami Dolphins, bringing a unique blend of power and agility to the field. He started his NFL journey after being drafted by the team in 2019.
The Dolphins started their last season on a high note, but their postseason journey was not notable. The franchise is now grappling with struggles to determine their roster moves ahead of the free agency period. While some players are assured of their tenure with the squad, Wilkins’ fate is hanging in the air.
Dolphins not using franchise tag means Christian Wilkins hits free agency
The Dolphins have opted not to use the franchise tag on Christian Wilkins. The decision comes with a hefty price tag, as the one-year tender for a defensive tackle would have amounted to a substantial $22.1 million. He is now set to explore the free agent market and is positioned at No. 10 in The Athletic’s top 150 free agent rankings.
While the Dolphins aim to keep Wilkins, financial constraints become a headache. The team is expected to closely monitor his free-agent journey, with the option to re-sign him if the market fails to meet their acceptable price point. Clearing over $70 million in cap space within the next week becomes a crucial task for the Dolphins.
The decision not to resort to the nonexclusive franchise tag saves the team from a substantial 2024 cap hit and salary of $22.1 million. A long-term contract, still on the negotiation table, could offer a more flexible structure, potentially reducing the 2024 cap number.
Christian Wilkins, who got embroiled in a brawl with Josh Allen last season, enters free agency on a high note. He has delivered a stellar performance in 2023 with 65 tackles and 9.0 sacks across 17 games. Pro Football Focus ranks him ninth in run defense grade among NFL defensive interior linemen, concluding a career-defining year for the DT.
Potential landing spots for Christian Wilkins
One potential landing spot for Christian Wilkins is the Houston Texans, who boast an impressive $70 million in cap space. Their clear need at defensive tackle only enhances the appeal of acquiring a player of Wilkins’ caliber.
The Chicago Bears, with significant cap room and a potential high draft pick at quarterback, are primed to make moves in free agency. Strengthening their defense with Wilkins could be a key part of their offseason strategy.
The Detroit Lions also emerge as a viable destination. They already have the option to retain restricted free agent Benito Jones, but adding Wilkins would significantly bolster their defensive line. For a team looking to assert itself as a Super Bowl contender, Wilkins could be a game-changer.
The New England Patriots emerge as another contender. With ample cap space and a desire to accelerate their rebuild under new head coach Jerod Mayo, the team can pursue him to anchor their revamped defensive line.
The Indianapolis Colts also possess ample funds to address their run defense, an area of weakness in the previous season. Meanwhile, under the new Antonio Pierce era, the Las Vegas Raiders are poised to prioritize defensive improvements, making Wilkins an interesting addition alongside Maxx Crosby.
