Christian Wilkins, known as one of the NFL’s top interior defensive linemen, has had a challenging time staying healthy. Despite signing a lucrative four-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders last year, Wilkins only managed to play in five games in 2024 due to a foot injury.
Unfortunately, Wilkins’ time with the Raiders came to an end on Thursday, as the team decided to release him. The Raiders stated, “We have decided it is in the best interest of the organization to move on from Christian Wilkins, and he has been informed of his release from the team.”
Wilkins’ release was made under the designation of terminated vested veteran, raising questions about whether he will receive the remaining guaranteed money from his contract. The deal Wilkins had signed in 2024 reportedly included $84.75 million in guarantees, with approximately $35.2 million still owed to him. However, the Raiders chose to void his contract.
Following his release, Wilkins filed a grievance with the NFLPA, as reported by ESPN. The Raiders justified their decision by stating, “With no clear path or plan for future return to play from Christian, this transaction is necessary for the entire organization to move forward and prepare for the new season.”
The dispute over the guaranteed money seems to revolve around how Wilkins was treated and his approach to rehabilitating from the foot injury. Despite the challenges, Wilkins has shown his talent with 22½ sacks since being a first-round NFL Draft pick out of Clemson. Prior to his time with the Raiders, he spent five seasons with the Miami Dolphins.