With the 2024 NFL free agency underway, Christian Walkins’ future is still uncertain. While many NFL teams have already started signing and releasing players, the Dolphins have yet to make a decision about Wilkins.
According to recent reports, the chances are that the Dolphins will re-sign Christian Wilkins amid Cardinals trade rumors.
Christian Wilkins rumored to get new Dolphins deals
Initially, the rumors were swirling about the Dolphins not offering Christian Wilkins a franchise tag. However, recently after the Ravens re-signed Justin Madubuike, the chances of the team re-signing Christian Wilkins have also been increased.
Reportedly, the DL will sign a 4-year deal worth over 110 million dollars with the Miami Dolphins.
Justin Madubuike’s outstanding performance last year with the Ravens has led the team to offer him a lucrative four-year contract worth $98 million. He achieved remarkable stats, including 13 sacks, 56 tackles, and 12 tackles for loss, earning him second-team All-Pro honors for the season. Likewise, Christian Wilkins had an exceptional season with the Dolphins, doubling his previous career high of 4.5 sacks in 2021 to 9 sacks in 2023.
With Madubuike signing, now Christian Wilkins and his agent will have a reference to negotiate the deal with the Dolphins. It has also increased the hopes of the DL getting a better deal from the Dolphins.
Christian Wilkins linked with move to Cardinals
There are also speculations that Christian Wilkins might join the Cardinals. ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss reported that the Cardinals view Wilkins as a “high priority” target in free agency. However, he noted that the salary factor might become a problem as he believes the DL might demand a higher salary than what the Cardinals are willing to pay.
Spotrac’s projected market value for Wilkins suggests a four-year deal worth just under $81 million, which the Cardinals could afford with their available cap space.
Wilkins ranked 13th in ESPN’s pass-rush win rate among all defensive tackles last season. While Christian Wilkins may have registered career-highs in sacks and quarterback hits, there’s speculation that he might have reached his peak performance level. However, his high ability still positions him as a potential difference-maker for any team, including the Cardinals.
For now, nothing has been confirmed about what will be the Christian Wilkins’ final decision. Expectedly, he will opt for a team offering him a high salary and higher growth potential, be it the Cardinals or the Dolphins.
