The Las Vegas Raiders had a significant turnaround in their last nine games under the leadership of Antonio Pierce. Because Pierce was well-respected and the team played well, Las Vegas named him their full-time head coach.
With $36 million in cap space, Las Vegas needed to strengthen its defensive line. They do so by signing an elite defensive tackle.
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to sign the former defensive tackle of the Miami Dolphins
According to Ian Rapoport, Las Vegas is expected to sign Christian Wilkins on a 4-year deal worth a $110 million base value and $84.75 million guaranteed.
Splash: One of the top free agents is off the market, as #Dolphins star DT Christian Wilkins is headed to the #Raiders, sources say.
He gets a 4-year deal worth $110M base value that includes $84.75M guaranteed in a contract done by @DavidMulugheta of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/aKwKFIfU5T
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2024
Here’s a quick review of his NFL career and the impact of his signing.
Christian Wilkins had a great start to his career in Miami
Miami drafted Wilkins in the 1st round, 13th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, and has developed into one of the best defensive tackles in the league.
Wilkins appeared in 16 games in 2019, recording 56 tackles, three for a loss, four QB hits, two sacks, and two pass deflections.
Wilkins appeared in 14 games in 2020, recording 47 tackles, four for a loss, three QB hits, 1.5 sacks, one interception, and five pass deflections.
Wilkins appeared in 17 games in 2021, recording 89 tackles, ten for a loss, 13 QB hits, 4.5 sacks, four pass deflections, and one forced fumble.
Wilkins appeared in 17 games in 2022, recording 98 tackles, 16 for a loss, seven QB hits, 3.5 sacks, six pass deflections, and two forced fumbles. He also had four tackles, two QB hits, and one sack in the Wild Card.
Wilkins appeared in 17 games in 2023, recording 65 tackles, ten for a loss, 23 QB hits, nine sacks, two pass deflections, and one forced fumble. He also had three tackles and one QB hit in the Wild Card.
The impact of Wilkins signing with Las Vegas
Wilkins will positively impact the defense because they are getting an elite defensive tackle who can do everything. Wilkins isn’t a one-trick pony and can rush the quarterback and stop the run, something the team needs desperately from their defensive line.
Another reason why this will positively impact the defense is because Maxx Crosby is getting significant defensive line help. Crosby has been carrying the defense throughout his career with limited help. Since they have Wilkins, Crosby doesn’t have to worry about carrying the defense anymore.
