In a surprising turn of events, veteran defensive lineman Christian Wilkins has been released by the Las Vegas Raiders following an incident that unfolded within the team’s confines. Reports indicate that Wilkins kissed a teammate on the forehead during a team meeting, an act that didn’t sit well with the recipient. While some sources described the gesture as playful, it evidently was not received that way by the teammate involved, leading to a complaint being filed with the Raiders’ human resources department.
Beyond this incident, Wilkins has been managing a Jones fracture in his left foot, an injury sustained in October 2024. The Raiders are now navigating the fallout from his release, opting to void the remaining $35.2 million in guaranteed money on his contract due to concerns regarding his commitment to rehabilitation. This decision has led to Wilkins seeking assistance from the NFL Players Association, as he has requested them to file a grievance to contest the Raiders’ move to negate his guaranteed earnings.
Wilkins had signed a lucrative four-year, $110 million contract with the Raiders last season, which included a staggering $84.75 million in guaranteed money. Prior to joining the Raiders, he established himself as one of the league’s premier defensive tackles during his tenure with the Miami Dolphins, where he recorded an impressive nine sacks during the 2023 season alone. In total, Wilkins amassed 20.5 sacks and 355 combined tackles over 81 games with Miami.
During his brief time with the Raiders, Wilkins appeared in five games before succumbing to his injury, contributing two sacks and 17 combined tackles to his new team’s defensive efforts. Unfortunately, the surgery to repair his foot ultimately cut short what was expected to be a significant season for him in Las Vegas.
As the situation develops, it certainly raises questions about Wilkins’ future in the league. His track record suggests he has the talent to make a strong impact, but the combination of his recent injury and the off-field incident will likely influence how teams evaluate his potential moving forward. This case is not just about performance on the field but also highlights the importance of maintaining harmony and professionalism within a team environment.
