The Miami Dolphins are facing their first big decision of the offseason. They have to decide what to do with defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who is set to hit free agency with his rookie contract expiring after the 2023 season.
Wilkins, a first-round pick in 2019, has been a solid player for the Dolphins through the first five seasons of his career. He has lived up to expectations, showcasing skills as both a run stuffer in the middle of the Miami defense and a pass rusher.
The Dolphins could use the franchise tag on Wilkins ahead of the 5 p.m. ET deadline on Monday. But, it sounds like they are opting against that. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Wilkins will be hitting the open market.
A durable player who has missed only two games in his career, Wilkins picked a great time to have the best season of his career. He set several career highs during the 2023 season, including 9.0 sacks and 23 quarterback hits.
NFL News & Rumors: Christian Wilkins, 2024 NFL Free Agency, Miami Dolphins Updates
The defensive tackle market has boomed in recent years. Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams remains the highest-paid player at the position, but others have certainly raised the floor for an above-average defensive tackle.
Seven defensive tackles earn at least $21 million annually and Wilkins will be looking to make that eight this offseason. He is regarded as one of the best players available this offseason, ranking near the top of many free agent lists, and rightfully so.
There is certainly a chance that Wilkins returns to Miami despite not having the franchise tag placed on him. But, the scheme will be different, which could make him no longer a fit for the team with Anthony Weaver taking over as defensive coordinator for Vic Fangio, who left to join the Philadelphia Eagles.
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