Why Did the Raiders Release Christian Wilkins?
Christian Wilkins was cut by the Raiders just months after signing a 4-year, $110 million deal. The team voided over $35 million in guarantees. While the official reason was a “failure to adhere to rehab protocols,” the move followed a bizarre incident where Wilkins kissed a teammate on the head during a team meeting.
The teammate reportedly filed an HR complaint. Combined with frustration over Wilkins’ rehab participation, the team decided to move on. Some insiders believe the kiss wasn’t the only issue, but it was the final straw.
Is Christian Wilkins Healthy Enough to Play in 2025?
Wilkins injured his foot late in the 2024 season and had offseason surgery. Disagreements over his rehab schedule escalated through the summer, with Wilkins pushing to train privately while the team wanted oversight.
As of late July, Wilkins is out of the walking boot and training. Sources close to his camp say he could be cleared to return to the field by late August and be game-ready for Week 1, assuming he signs with a new team in time.
5 NFL Teams That Could Sign Christian Wilkins
Several NFL teams have been linked to Wilkins in the days since his release. Most are viewing him as a short-term add with heavy incentives, but let’s take a look at where he could land.
1. Minnesota Vikings
Vikings DC Brian Flores was the Dolphins' HC for part of DT Christian Wilkins' time there, and the Vikings tried to sign Wilkins as a UFA in 2024. Here's what Flores said today when asked if he would be interested in adding him to a deep defensive line: pic.twitter.com/c2yxjkeR1T
— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) July 28, 2025
- DC Brian Flores coached Wilkins in Miami and trusts him.
- Team needs interior depth behind Allen and Hargrave.
- Flores has said he’s “not opposed” to the idea.
2. New England Patriots
Mike Vrabel says the Patriots will look into Christian Wilkins, who is going to be released by the Raiders. pic.twitter.com/t5LMWMTvjT
— Sean T. McGuire (@BySeanMcGuire) July 25, 2025
- Head coach Mike Vrabel knows Wilkins’ personality and game.
- Would slot in behind Barmore and Godchaux.
- Risky culture fit, but the talent is worth a look.
3. Atlanta Falcons
Insider @JamesPalmerTV indicates that Falcons had interest in Wilkins last year, could take time, but Falcons could be on his radar this year pic.twitter.com/QvdbhlgKiA
— Damski 🫶🏽 (@Damski32) July 28, 2025
- Have the cap space and need help on the D-line.
- Linked to Wilkins by NFL insider James Palmer.
- Low-risk, high-upside flier for a defense still in transition.
4. Miami Dolphins
Who wants the Miami Dolphins to bring back Christian Wilkins? pic.twitter.com/bV0dUOpRNY
— ThePhinstones (@The_Phinstones) July 27, 2025
- Former team, familiar with his strengths and limitations.
- Fits well next to Sieler in that system.
- Financial flexibility could be a barrier.
5. Cincinnati Bengals
Let me be clear, the #Bengals should go after Christian Wilkins if he can pass a physical or if the foot injury looks fine.
Will they? Probably not. Should they? Absolutely. pic.twitter.com/hhOQjp8Krs
— Whodeyupdates (@whodeyupdates) July 24, 2025
- Depth needed at DT after free agency losses.
- Potential suitor if Wilkins clears medicals.
- Fits the Bengals’ system.
When Will Christian Wilkins Be Back on the Field?
Wilkins is targeting a return by the end of preseason. If a team signs him by mid-August, he should be ready for Week 1. Any delay could mean a ramp-up on the practice squad or a phased return in September.
Wilkins still has plenty left to offer on the field. The question now is whether any team thinks the upside outweighs the noise.
