Back in early 2024, Christian Wilkins was a key figure in the Las Vegas Raiders‘ free agency efforts. Unfortunately, as we approach this season, his contract seems to be aging poorly.
Then-general manager Tom Telesco accomplished a few things that’ll pay dividends as the years go by for the Raiders. Most notably, Telesco delivered one of the best draft classes in years—perhaps as transformational as the 2014 edition. However, free agency was a different story and when Wilkins was signed, there was a concern that Las Vegas might’ve overpaid for the defensive tackle.
Before his foot injury derailed what could have been a special season, Wilkins did make an impact last year. It wasn’t that long ago that the Raiders lineman had nine sacks in a single campaign (2023). After just five games, the master plan of having Wilkins alongside Maxx Crosby ended abruptly. Almost immediately the $110 million contract came into question.
As an intriguing offseason continues with training camp now days away, it’s fair to critique the massive financial commitment.
Christian Wilkins’ $18.137 Million Cap Hit (Ouch)
Fans will point to the fact that prior to his injury, Wilkins was looking excellent. While it is fair to acknowledge Wilkins’ previous performance, this offseason has raised significant concerns about his prospects for the 2025 season.
The Vegas Nation Podcast recently brought up an intriguing theory that Wilkins might’ve suffered a setback late last season as he was trying to return before it ended. While it’s speculation, the Raiders did decide to shut him down—as Adam Hill said on the podcast, “That’s often why teams have to save players from themselves.”
Missing the entire offseason thus far isn’t fostering much optimism around Wilkins, at least from Raider Nation. The best-case scenario is that we’ll see him at training camp; if not, concerns will only increase. Coming off a foot injury, Wilkins will require ample time to get into game shape if that’s the case. To say this is becoming the biggest story for the Raiders is an understatement.
Is he worth the monumental cap hit that the Raiders will have to take?
*Top Photo: Getty Images