The Las Vegas Raiders made a big move at the start of free agency by signing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to a four-year, $110 million contract. Defensive tackle was a major need for the team and they acquired the top available option in free agency.
While many praised the Raiders for landing the former Miami Dolphin, not everyone viewed the decision as positively. Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report criticized the move as the worst contract of free agency so far.
“The five-year veteran has never been a first- or second-team All-Pro or a Pro Bowler, he’s never recorded more than 10 sacks, he’s produced five total takeaways in five seasons, and he’s never achieved a double-digit approximate value rating at Pro Football Reference (usually the threshold for stardom, and a feat that over 100 players accomplished in 2023),” Gagnon wrote in a March 20 column.
“Should Wilkins really be the fifth-highest-paid defensive player in the NFL? The market is what it is, but I believe the Raiders will regret this one.”
The Raiders are paying a substantial cost for Wilkins but if they hadn’t paid that cost, another team likely would have. He’s not at the Chris Jones level of defensive tackles but he’s a major improvement in a crucial position for Las Vegas.
Will Las Vegas Raiders Regret Christian Wilkins’ Contract?
The Raiders probably slightly overpaid for Christian Wilkins but that’s part of free agency. However, there’s reason for the team to be optimistic that this will be a worthwhile contract. Wilkins is just 28 and in the prime of his career. This is only his second contract so there isn’t too much wear and tear.
Also, defensive coordinator Patrick Graham was the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator in 2019 when they drafted him in the first round. He’s been able to observe Wilkins up close and should have good insight into how he works.
Plus, it also needs to be taken into account the kind of talent the Raiders have at defensive end. Maxx Crosby is an All-Pro, Malcolm Koonce was a breakout star last season and Tyree Wilson is a year removed from being the No. 7 pick in the draft. Having so much focus on the edge rushers should create many opportunities for Wilkins to have one-on-ones. Although the Raiders are devoting a lot of salary cap to one player, most indications point to this being a wise move by the team.
Las Vegas Raiders Defense Could Have Big Year
The Raiders defense was exceptional after Antonio Pierce took over as head coach in Week 9. The team allowed the fewest points per game allowed (16.0), had the most defensive touchdowns (4) and committed the fewest penalties (31) from Week 9 to the end of the season.
The team hasn’t lost any major players and added Christian Wilkins. Plus, the team could add more impact defenders in free agency and the draft. With so many questions on offense, specifically the quarterback position, the Raiders seem focused on building an elite defense. If they can find a true No. 1 cornerback, there’s no telling just how good this defense could be in 2024.
