Defensive tackle played just one season after signing four-year, $110 million contract
The Las Vegas Raiders have released defensive tackle Christian Wilkins due to a disagreement over his rehab, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
ESPN sources: Raiders are releasing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins with the designation of terminated vested veteran. His time in Las Vegas is now over.
Due to how Wilkins treated the rehab from his foot injury he suffered last season, the Raiders voided the remaining $35.2… pic.twitter.com/GXOGSeXz5H
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 24, 2025
Wilkins was recovering from a Jones fracture in his foot that prematurely ended his initial season with the Raiders after just five games. It was reported during OTAs that he suffered a setback in his recovery, which required another surgery.
The club provided the following statement on the decision:
“We have decided that it is in the best interests of the organization to move on from Christian Wilkins and he has been informed of his release from the team. This franchise has a Commitment to Excellence on and off the field. 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 Raiders are also voiding the remaining guaranteed money on Wilkins’ contract, and he filed a grievance with the NFLPA, per The Athletic’s Tashan Reed. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport provided more information on the matter in the video below.
From The Insiders on @NFLNetwork: The #Raiders have released DT Christian Wilkins, a shocking turn to a saga that has been ongoing for months. pic.twitter.com/ZvjehMoHS2
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 24, 2025
After signing a four-year, $110 million contract in free agency last year, Wilkins played in just five games for the Raiders, collecting 17 tackles, two sacks and two TFLs. The defense now turns to Adam Butler, Zach Carter, Leki Fotu, Jonah Laulu, Tonka Hemingway and JJ Pegues at defensive tackle for the upcoming season, barring another addition during training camp.