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Christian Wilkins, the experienced defensive lineman who was recently let go by the Las Vegas Raiders, reportedly kissed a teammate on the forehead, causing offense.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the incident occurred in a team meeting room last week. It was described as “playful” by one source, but the teammate involved did not view it that way. A complaint was filed with the Raiders’ human resources department following the incident.
Wilkins is currently dealing with a Jones fracture in his left foot, which he sustained in October 2024.
Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates after getting a sack against the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Allegiant Stadium. (Stephen R. Sylvanie/Imagn Images)
The Raiders are reportedly voiding the remaining $35.2 million in guaranteed money on Wilkins’ contract due to his behavior during his rehab assignment after the injury. Wilkins was released with the designation of terminated vested veteran.
After the Raiders’ decision to void his guaranteed money, Wilkins requested the NFL Players Association to file a grievance on his behalf, which was done on Thursday.
Wilkins signed a lucrative four-year, $110 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency last year. He had a successful tenure with the Miami Dolphins, including a career-high nine-sack season in 2023 before becoming a free agent. Wilkins accumulated 20.5 sacks and 355 combined tackles over 81 games with the Dolphins.
Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. (Tommy Gilligan/Imagn Images)
In the five games before his injury in 2024, Wilkins recorded two sacks and 17 combined tackles for the Raiders. He underwent surgery for the Jones fracture, ending his debut season in Las Vegas.
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