JUST IN: Christian Wilkins of the Raiders discloses which player had an impact….

Christian Wilkins of the Raiders discloses which player had an impact on his unexpected free agency choice.

 

The Las Vegas Raiders made a bold move as free agency commenced, securing former Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl defensive tackle Christian Wilkins on a four-year contract. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport disclosed that the deal, valued at $110 million, includes $84.75 million in guaranteed money.Wilkins, renowned for his prowess as an interior defensive lineman, expressed his admiration for Maxx Crosby, a standout defensive end for the Raiders, identifying him as one of his favorite NFL players in an interview with Vincent Bonsignore of The Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Standing at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 310 pounds, Wilkins joins the Raiders following a five-season stint (2019-2023) with the Dolphins, who initially drafted him as the 13th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.

Since 2019, Wilkins has amassed 353 career tackles, the highest among all defensive linemen during that period, placing him second in NFL history among defensive linemen in their first five seasons.

In the 2023 season, Wilkins showcased his skills by starting in all 17 games, recording impressive statistics including 63 tackles (36 solo), nine sacks, 10 tackles for loss, two passes defensed, 23 quarterback hits, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. His sack total in that season marked a career high and ranked him fifth among NFL defensive tackles.

The acquisition of Wilkins alongside Crosby presents the Raiders with a formidable defensive line pairing, possibly elevating their defensive capabilities to unprecedented levels and posing a significant challenge for opposing offenses.

Moreover, both Wilkins and Crosby boast exceptional durability, evidenced by Wilkins’ streak of 51 consecutive starts and Crosby’s perfect attendance throughout his five-year NFL career.

Wilkins emphasized the importance of putting in the work, building rapport with teammates, and integrating into the Raiders’ defensive unit to maximize their collective potential.

 

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