In the short term, the Las Vegas Raiders are clinging to a faint postseason chance in 2023, with a challenging schedule after their bye week and four teams piled ahead of them for the seventh and final AFC playoff position. Long term, it is evident that with the right coach and a few guys added in Raiders free agency, this team has the potential to be very competitive again very quickly.
With that in mind, Bleacher Report examined one intriguing Raiders free agent addition to consider: Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, the kind of imposing veteran inside presence the defense is lacking.
While the Raiders have improved defensively throughout the season, they remain one of the worst teams in the NFL at stopping the run, ranking 30th in yardage allowed on the ground and 31st with an average of 4.4 yards per carry allowed.
That’s where Wilkins, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 310 pounds, comes in. Sticking him in the middle of the Raiders defense would not only help the Raiders stop the run, but would also help occupy blockers, giving studs like Maxx Crosby and Robert Spillane more freedom to make plays.
Christian Wilkins a ‘Force Multiplier’
To that end, B/R has Wilkins joining the Raiders in free agency in 2024.
“For this defensive front, Christian Wilkins would be a force multiplier.” He’s the most dominant inside defender available in free agency, aside from Chris Jones. “He’s an elite run stopper who is having his best pass-rushing season to date,” the outlet noted this week.
“He’s the kind of presence whom the Raiders need to unlock the potential of Maxx Crosby and rookie Tyree Wilson.”
Indeed, Wilkins has been outstanding against the run, as usual. He has a 72.8 grade versus the run among all interior defenders rated by Pro Football Focus, which ranks 15th in the NFL out of 127 players. He isn’t as powerful versus the pass, but he ranks 17th among defensive lineman with a 75.5 grade.
Plenty of Money to Spend in Raiders Free Agency
Part of the problem for this squad as it finishes the season and prepares for Raiders free agency in 2024 is that it is unclear whether interim coach Antonio Pierce and interim general manager Champ Kelly will be in charge. But, regardless of who it is, there is talent—and money.
“Whoever is hired as general manager this offseason must be ready to go.” On defense, there are solid components in place for a swift turnaround. The Raiders are also ranked 10th in cap space for 2024, so spending should not be an issue,” according to B/R.
