Now that the deadline for NFL groups to make use of the franchise or transition tag has handed, defensive deal with Christian Wilkins will grow to be an unrestricted free agent on March 13 until he indicators a brand new contract with the Miami Dolphins by then.
As one of many high free brokers in the marketplace, Wilkins will doubtless don’t have any scarcity of provides.
The place the 2019 first-round decide, who gave the Dolphins 5 superb seasons, will likely be enjoying in 2024 is anybody's guess, however there are clearly sure groups that stand out as extra logical locations at this level.
LOGICAL GOALS FOR CHRISTIAN WILKINS
1. MIAMI DOLPHINS
Sure, the potential for Wilkins returning to the Dolphins is completely there. The Dolphins' refusal to make use of the tag on him wasn't about closing the door, however somewhat an unwillingness to simply accept an instantaneous $18 million or $22 million cap hit for 2024, which might solely come down if a long-term deal was in place. It's fairly clear that the Dolphins would like to see Wilkins transfer ahead if the 2 sides can agree on monetary compensation.
2. LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
The Raiders have been talked about as a possible goal if the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs don't retain Chris Jones, however that's actually exhausting to see. Wilkins can be a really good comfort prize for brand spanking new head coach Antonio Pierce and a Raiders protection that was center of the pack in run protection in 2023.
3. HOUSTON TEXANS
The Texans are an up-and-coming crew with a brilliant future, full with a number of obvious wants and a ton of cap house. Texas can also be, like Florida, a state with no earnings tax to make it much more engaging to free brokers. The Texans have been superb in opposition to the run in 2023, however they’ve three inside defensive linemen slated to grow to be UFAs and a fourth scheduled to grow to be an RFA.
4. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
The Seahawks, beginning over with new head coach Mike Macdonald, have struggled at tight finish in 2023, and Leonard Williams is predicted to begin on protection as a free agent. Wilkins would characterize a junior improve on the place.
5. DETROIT LIONS
Coming off their most profitable season in three a long time, the Lions are in search of extra constant strain from their defensive tackles after hiring veteran line of defense coach Terrell Williams.
6. NEW YORK GIANTS
The Giants actually struggled in opposition to the run final season and have loads of cap house. If the cash is aggressive, Wilkins could possibly be tempted to reunite with former Clemson line of defense accomplice Dexter Lawrence.
7. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
The one crew within the AFC East that may have any attraction for Wilkins and hold him within the division if he leaves Miami can be New England, reminding everybody that Wilkins grew up in Massachusetts. Whereas the Patriots actually don't appear like contenders in 2024, the thought of returning house and probably additionally enjoying for brand spanking new head coach Jerod Mayo may attraction to Wilkins.