Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins agrees to a 4-year deal with the Raiders

Mon, Mar 11, 2024
NFL News (AP)

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) - The Las Vegas Raiders received a major boost to their interior defensive line on Monday when tackle Christian Wilkins agreed to a four-year, $110 contract.

Of that amount, $84.75 million will be guaranteed, agent David Mulugheta said.

Wilkins, 28, can sign the contract on Wednesday when the new league year begins. Players were able to agree to terms with teams beginning Monday.

Wilkins played his first five seasons for the Miami Dolphins, with whom he became one of the NFL's top run stoppers. He set a league record in 2022 for his position with 98 tackles. The Raiders were 20th last season in run defense, allowing 118.5 yards per game.

Wilkins' ability to get to the quarterback had been questioned after he recorded 11 1/2 sacks through his first four seasons. However, he made a career-high nine sacks last season, fourth among tackles.

That should make Wilkins a nice complement to ends Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce, who combined to make 22 1/2 sacks last season. The Raiders also have 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson, who was moved inside, where he showed promise, but he still needs to improve on his 3 1/2 sacks.

Wilkins, a 2019 first-round draft pick, has started 77 games over five seasons.

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