The first real shocking move of NFL training camp has just materialized courtesy of Pete Carroll’s Las Vegas Raiders.
Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, the former Miami Dolphins who agreed to a four-year (plus a void year), $110 million contract with the Raiders in free agency last season, has been let go with terminated vested veteran designation, which means he’s not subject to waivers.
The story runs a little bit deeper than that, though. Wilkins only played five games before undergoing surgery
on a fractured foot. Entering training camp, Wilkins was placed on the PUP list, raising considerable doubt over his readiness for Pete Carroll’s first season in charge of the Raiders. Here’s the latest from ESPN’s Adam Schefter:
Due to how Wilkins treated the rehab from his foot injury he suffered last season, the Raiders voided the remaining $35.2 million of guaranteed money left on Wilkins contract last month and today, Wilkins filed a grievance with the NFLPA.
Carroll told media on Tuesday that Wilkins’ timetable was “still uncertain,” and that they “sort of have to wait it out.” Well, I guess they were done waiting. This story is only just beginning knowing Wilkins has filed a grievance.
The Raiders have a new front office in addition to coaching staff, so this high-profile signing falls under Tom Telesco, who was canned after one season. With five games played, the final reckoning is just under $10 million per game for a man who boasted a career-high nine sacks with Miami in 2023 before cashing in with Vegas.
Christian Wilkins made $29.2M last year and $20.5M this year already.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 24, 2025
That’s $49.7M for 5 games. He had another $8M on the books for 2025. https://t.co/PxOp01xPBL
Ian Rapoport added that the Raiders reportedly wanted him to undergo (another) surgery, but Wilkins declined and wanted to rehab his foot without surgery. As recently as last month, Wilkins was seen in a walking boot. The Raiders have since released this statement:
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. 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.
By no means is this an invitation for the Seahawks to sign him, especially with valid concerns regarding his foot, but where he winds up next could be relevant to Seattle.
Good luck in Vegas, Pete.
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