LAS VEGAS – The Las Vegas Raiders announced Thursday they have released veteran defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, ending his tenure after just one season under a four‑year, $110 million contract. The move comes amid a dispute over Wilkins’ rehab approach and a disagreement on whether he should undergo further surgery for a foot injury.
Wilkins, 29, originally signed in March 2024 with $84.75 million guaranteed. His 2024 season was cut short by a Jones fracture to his left foot, sustained during Week 5 and followed by surgery in October. Although he briefly returned to active status last year, he did not participate in OTAs or minicamp this offseason and remained on the Physically Unable to Perform list entering training camp.
The Raiders released Wilkins with the designation of “terminated vested veteran” and have voided approximately $35.2 million in remaining guarantees, citing “how Wilkins treated the rehab” from the injury. In response, Wilkins has filed a grievance with the NFL Players Association, challenging the voiding of his guaranteed money.
In a statement, the Raiders said they “decided that it is in the best interests of the organization to move on,” adding: “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 had recorded 17 tackles and two sacks in five games for Las Vegas before his injury, and over his NFL career he amassed 372 tackles and 22.5 sacks between the Raiders and Miami Dolphins.
Wilkins is now an unrestricted free agent. The dispute over the guarantees and medical evaluation cloud his market outlook, but if he regains full health, he could still attract interest from teams seeking interior line depth.
The Raiders will fill their interior defensive line depth via retained players such as Adam Butler, new additions like Leki Fotu, and recent draft picks Tonka Hemingway and JJ Pegues. Wilkins’ grievance could result in arbitration over pay provisions under the league’s collective bargaining agreement