Stunning split: Raiders try to void $35M after Wilkins refuses surgery

Just one year into his four-year, $110 million deal, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins has been released by the Las Vegas Raiders.

Foot surgery dispute sends Wilkins packing

When the Raiders signed Wilkins to his four-year deal in 2024, it looked like a win as he was one of the best free agents on the market and best overall players at his position.

Unfortunately, Wilkins injured his right foot last season and was only able to play in five games. He finished the season with just 17 tackles and two sacks. He underwent surgery for a Jones fracture, but at the start of the Raiders’ training camp this year, Wilkins was still on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list with an uncertain timeline to return.

The team was urging him to get surgery, but Wilkins reportedly declined after getting several different opinions on the matter. Now, the Raiders have released Wilkins in an attempt to void $35.25 million in guarantees, leading to a filed grievance on Wilkins’ behalf.

“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.”

His release leaves a major gap in Las Vegas’ defensive line. Remaining at DT for the Raiders are Adam Butler and Leki Fotu as the likely starters. Wilkins, who’s logged 372 career tackles, 56 quarterback hits, and 22.5 sacks in his six-year career, is now a free agent with health and questions of trust impacting his next move.

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