Initial thoughts on Raiders releasing Christian Wilkins

Just like that, big-ticket free agent is gone

The Las Vegas Raiders stunned the NFL late Thursday afternoon by releasing big-ticket free agent Christian Wilkins.

Here are some early thoughts on what it means:

First adversity for new regime:

There has been a lot of good vibes surrounding the new Las Vegas regime of general manager John Spytek and head coach Pete Carroll. They had a good offseason and draft the Carroll’s infectious positivity has been a welcome layer of sunshine for this franchise that has been embroiled in one issue after another over the years. Yet, on the second day of training camp, this is a major bombshell that has hit the team out of nowhere. The terse tone of the Raiders’ statement announcing Wilkins’ release shows there was serious acrimony between the player and the team’s brass. This is a raw and rare team statement.

This is a ongoing battle:

This fight will continue between the franchise and Wilkins. He reportedly already has filed a grievance with the NFLPA over the Raiders voiding the remaining $35.2 million in the guaranteed money still owed in the four-year, $110 million contract former general manager Tom Telesco gave Wilkins in 2024 as a top free-agent addition. Wilkins total guaranteed money was for more than $82 million. NFL Media reported the Raiders wanted Wilkins — who fractured his foot last October — to have another surgery, but he wanted to rehab on his own. The recovery time had lingered much longer than expected and Carroll called it “challenging” this offseason. So, the fight over money continues.

Why it’s unexpected:

While the two sides have been reportedly at odds for a while, this was expected to be something that would work itself out and it has been reported the Raiders were hopeful Wilkins would be ready to practice next week. Until his release occurred, it seemed plausible Wilkins could be ready for Week 1. Now, he’s a former Raider after just five games played with the organization.

What’s the defensive tackles look like:

Without Wilkins, the Raiders’ current defensive tackle plan would consist of Adam Butler, Leki Fotu, Jonah Laulu and Zach Carter with rookies Tonka Hemingway and J.J. Pegues working their way into the rotation as well. It’s not a great group on paper, but some young players have a chance to make a big impact.

Who’s available:

The Raiders will likely look for upgrades now and until Week 1 starts at defensive tackle. Among those available include Raekwon Davis, Austin Johnson, Linval Joseph, former Raiders’ draft pick Maurice Hurst, Jordan Phillips and Quinton Jefferson. Jefferson worked out for the team this week and he has played for the Raiders and for Carroll in Seattle. He could be a quick option.

Another big addition gone awry:

The Wilkins’ signing was universally applauded. He was one of the very best players available and was considered a durable, high-character player. He was a top five Raiders’ player. Now, he’s gone. We all know the list, but this is just another high-profile addition by the Silver and Black that quickly blew up.

Spend other money?

The Wilkins’ money will take a while to sort out, but the Raiders do have salary cap room remaining and could sign a 2026 free agent like left tackle Kolton Miller, wide receiver Jakobi Myers or kicker Daniel Carlson at any time.

What’s next for Wilkins?

The Athletic reported that Wilkins could soon take visits. There is no doubt he will be highly sought after on the open market. But he has to be healthy and clearly, he isn’t at the moment, so this could take some town. If would be a major gut kick, though, if he signs quickly and is on the field in another uniform in Week 1 or early in the season. Stay tuned.

Can this team overcome this early hit?

Tuesday, Carroll boasted that he expects the Raiders to win big now. He knew Wilkins’ status then and he still felt good about this team. Remember, Wilkins hasn’t been on the field at all this year. The team is moving forward and will feel good about itself. Still, the fact that one of the best players is off the roster is a reality and defense that already has several questions marks is facing another challenge. But this is a challenge that must be met.