The Miami Dolphins are shedding some payroll this offseason after already releasing Xavien Howard but that seems to not be the only player not returning. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is reporting that the team is deciding not to place the franchise tag on defensive tackle Christian Wilkins and will allow him to become a free agent.
The franchise tag for the defensive tackle position this season is worth $22.1 million so it will be interesting to see how the NFL free agency market shapes up for him. Wilkins had a breakout season for the Miami Dolphins last season as he finished with 65 total tackles (38 solo, 27 assisted) with nine sacks, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and a pair of pass deflections.
There are going to be some teams that are looking to bolster their defensive line and Wilkins could be a solid addition that will be entering the free agent market. He’s not going to be the top target as if Chris Jones hits the market, he will immediately be the top DT in the free agency class. Wilkins had a fifth-year option last year that paid him more than $10.75 million and it will be intriguing to see where he winds up next.
Did the Miami Dolphins make the correct move not franchise tagging Christian Wilkins?
The Miami Dolphins are in an interesting position as they have some significant players all hitting the free agent market this offseason and only are able to give the franchise tag to one person. While it appears that the team is not doing so for Wilkins, they need to decide who will get it with candidates like defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah and center Connor Williams being available.
However, this decision is making people scratch their heads as they could have franchise tagged Wilkins and traded him. While they may not believe that he is worth the $22.1 million that the franchise tag will guarantee him, there are teams that need help on the defensive line that are going to be looking to add.
The idea of not trading him and letting Christian Wilkins, a player you spent the 13th selection in the 2019 NFL draft, walk for nothing seems a little weird to me.
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