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The New England Patriots haven’t been as aggressive as they were last offseason in free agency, but they still have made several important moves over the past week or so. They may not be done just yet, and an intriguing defensive tackle option may be emerging in former Las Vegas Raiders star Christian Wilkins.
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After starring over the first five seasons of his career with the Miami Dolphins, Wilkins signed a four-year, $110 million contract with the Raiders. He only played in five games for them, though, as he was released ahead of the 2025 campaign due to a lingering foot injury and a mysterious locker room controversy. After not playing in 2025, Wilkins is attempting to make a comeback in 2026, which could pique the Pats’ interest.
“Free-agent DT Christian Wilkins fully intends to play this season, but still is rehabbing his foot injury, per his agent David Mulugheta,” Adam Schefter of ESPN reported in a post on X. “So far 26 teams have reached out and are waiting for Wilkins to be ready, and Wilkins is expected to have a new home as soon as he wants.”
The full details on Wilkins’ aforementioned locker room incident are murky, as he reportedly attempted to kiss one of his teammates on the forehead during his brief time in Las Vegas. Beyond that, his foot injury also isn’t fully healed, so that’s something he’s going to have to get squared away before he can return to action.
A Massachusetts native, returning to New England could be enticing for Wilkins, and he could be a good prove-it-deal candidate, with Milton Williams and Christian Barmore already manning the defensive tackle spot. Wilkins may be able to earn a bigger role elsewhere, but depending on how his market unfolds, he’s absolutely a player the Patriots should at least check in on if they haven’t already.
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