There is some stunning NFL news coming out of Las Vegas tonight. The Raiders are releasing defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Why did it happen, and can Wilkins sign elsewhere right away?
Christian Wilkins Released By Raiders
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) July 24, 2025
After one season, the Raiders are moving on from Wilkins.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Raiders released Wilkins with the designation of terminated vested veteran.
“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,” the Raiders said in a statement. “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.”
What makes the move stunning is that Wilkins signed a four-year, $110 million contract during the 2024 offseason.
Wilkins suffered a Jones fracture last October. He recorded 17 tackles, two sacks, and six quarterback hits in five games before the season-ending surgery.
In a surprising move, Wilkins was placed on the physically unable to perform list to open training camp. On Tuesday, Raiders head coach Pete Carroll said it’s “unclear” when Wilkins would return to the field.
When Wilkins eventually returns, it won’t be with the Raiders.
The complicated matter of this issue involves Wilkins’ guaranteed money. The Raiders voided the remaining $35.2 million of guaranteed money left on his contract due to how Wilkins treated his rehab.
Wilkins reportedly filed a grievance with the NFLPA on Thursday.
Can Christian Wilkins Sign Elsewhere?
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 will now be an attractive free agent to many NFL teams, especially one that needs help on the defensive line.
Wilkins’ list of suitors will come down to his grievance. If Wilkins wins and receives the rest of or close to his guaranteed money owed by the Raiders, he can sign for a cheaper short-term deal. This will obviously increase the number of teams interested in the 29-year-old tackle.
If Wilkins loses his grievance and does not receive much of the remaining guaranteed money, he will likely seek a larger deal to offset his losses.
Safe to say that many teams will be paying attention to the ruling on Wilkins’ contract.
