Raiders’ new regime sends strong message in releasing DT Christian Wilkins

The Las Vegas Raiders released star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins on Thursday, sending a strong message about commitment. General Manager John Spytek and coach Pete Carroll made the decision just one year after Wilkins signed a lucrative four-year, $110 million contract. The team issued a statement emphasizing their "Commitment to Excellence" and stating the release was necessary due to "no clear path or plan for future return to play" from Wilkins, allowing the organization to move forward.

Coach Carroll confirmed the decision on Friday, explaining that it took considerable time to reach the conclusion that there was "no clear path to his return," forcing the team to move on. The relationship deteriorated after Wilkins suffered a significant injury on October 6, 2024. During a Week 5 game against the Denver Broncos, Wilkins injured his left foot after an awkward step while making a tackle. He finished the first half but was ruled out at halftime and later diagnosed with a season-ending Jones fracture requiring surgery.

This injury contributed to the Raiders' disappointing 4-13 season, which ultimately led to the firing of the previous management who signed Wilkins and the hiring of Spytek and Carroll. Despite not acquiring him, the new regime viewed Wilkins as a key part of their future plans. They demonstrated this commitment in March by restructuring a $20.5 million roster bonus into a signing bonus, creating salary cap space and further tying the franchise to Wilkins long-term.

However, before the start of Organized Team Activities (OTAs), the Raiders determined Wilkins' foot required a second procedure to heal correctly. While disappointing, there was still time for recovery before the 2025 season. The critical issue, according to league sources, was that Wilkins refused to undergo this second surgery. This refusal created the impasse that led to his release.