Should the Dolphins consider bringing back DT Christian Wilkins?
After spending the first five years of his career in Miami, Wilkins inked a massive four-year $110 million deal with the Raiders during the 2024 offseason. But his first and only season in Las Vegas was a major disappointment. Wilkins appeared in just five games before suffering a season-ending Jones fracture in his foot that required surgery. Wilkins recorded 17 tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, and six quarterback hits in the five games he suited up for the Raiders. He's now searches for a new home entering the 2025 season.
There are varying reports on the reason for his release, including some dubious claims about Wilkins' conduct in the locker room and accusations that the defensive linemen didn't treat his rehab responsibly. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Raiders are aiming to void the remaining $35.2 million of guaranteed money remaining on Wilkins' contract. In response, Wilkins filed a grievance with the NFLPA.
These circumstances combined with Wilkins continuing to rehab the foot injury brings into question if he will even play in the 2025 season, let alone what team.
A healthy version of the 29-year-old defensive tackle could certainly help a number of teams, including the Dolphins. Would Miami entertain the idea of bringing their 2019 first-round pick?
In Wilkins' last season with the Dolphins in 2023, he recorded a career best nine sacks and earned the No. 81 spot on the annual NFL Top 100 list. Even though his foot will be a concern, Wilkins has no real injury history before last season. Wilkins started all 17 games in his last three seasons with the Dolphins. Wilkins appeared in 81 games for the Dolphins from 2019-2023. recorded 355 tackles, 20.5 sacks, 43 tackles for loss, and 50 quarterback hits.
Last offseason, Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver expressed excitement in the potential of utilizing Wilkins on his defense, although he never got the chance.
"I love coaching good players, and obviously he is one of them," Weaver said of Wilkins. "So have a tremendous amount of respect for him. I know that he's positioned himself, obviously, for a huge payday. And as an ex-player, I completely understand the business of the league. So, love Christian, right, we'd love to have him, but man we'll see."
Wilkins would add to a loaded Dolphins' front seven that could be trouble for opposing quarterbacks and run game. The Dolphins put a lot of work into their defensive line this offseason adding 2025 first-round pick Kenneth Grant along with rookies Jordan Phillips and Zeek Biggers to a group that already included Zach Sieler and Benito Jones.
Wilkins could re-assume his role opposite Sieler while the rookie Grant develops in a rotational role. Considering Wilkins is recovering from a serious injury, the Dolphins could probably prioritize Grant in their rotation along with Sieler and Jones.
Ultimately, a reunion for Wilkins and the Dolphins might be unlikely due to the team's salary cap situation. While an extension for Sieler likely cleared some space Sunday night, the Dolphins are still near the bottom of the league in available space. The Dolphins also have concerns with their depth at offensive line and cornerback, making the cap space they still have important to reserve in case a starter goes down with an injury.
If Wilkins took a hometown discount to come back to his former team for a year, the Dolphins should absolutely consider it. He is the type of player who will fit any system wherever he is placed in the lineup.
There is still a lot to be worked out for Wilkins and his departure with the Raiders. It is also still unknown when exactly he will return from his foot injury. But once these questions are answered, and he is in a position to sign with a team, the Dolphins should certainly be a team in play for their former star defensive lineman.
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