Raiders release Wilkins after 1 season
The Las Vegas Raiders are releasing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins after one season "in the best interests of the organization," the team announced Thursday.
"This franchise has a commitment to excellence on and off the field," the Raiders said in a statement. "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."
Wilkins' release comes with the designation of terminated vested veteran, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Raiders voided the remaining $35.2 million of guaranteed money left on Wilkins' deal because of how the defensive tackle treated his rehab for a season-ending foot injury, Schefter reports.
Wilkins reportedly filed a grievance with the NFLPA.
NFLPA had 50 days to file a grievance on behalf of Christian Wilkins after the Raiders voided $35.25 million worth of guaranteed money in his contract on June 4 — $8 million for this year, $27.25 million for next year. The grievance was filed this morning. A legal battle awaits.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 25, 2025
Wilkins was a prized free-agent addition in 2024, signing a four-year, $110-million contract. However, he played only five games due to a Jones fracture in his foot.
The organization wanted Wilkins to have surgery on his foot, but Wilkins declined after getting several opinions, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
A first-round pick of the Miami Dolphins in 2019, Wilkins developed into one of the most fearsome interior pass-rushers in the league. He registered a career-high nine sacks in 2023 during his contract year. He's accumulated 22.5 sacks over his career.