Star defensive tackle is still dealing with 2024 foot injury
The Las Vegas Raiders continue to work this offseason without star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who has not returned from a foot injury he suffered last October.
Let’s look at where things currently stand:
Current status:
In May, Las Vegas coach Pete Carroll addressed Wilkins’ return from injury for the first time as the coach called the process “challenging.” Carroll didn’t elaborate much on the extend of Wilkins’ setback. But the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that the belief was Wilkins, who signed a four-year, $110 million free-agent contract with Las Vegas in 2024, either had an inserted screw break or an actual bone break during his rehab. The report stated the tema is hopeful he can return to practice in August, weeks before the start of the season.
In-house defensive tackle look:
Without Wilkins, the Raiders’ current defensive tackle plan would consist of Adam Butler, Leki Fotu, Jonah Laulu with rookies Tonka Hemingway and J.J. Pegues working their way into the rotation as well. The team will probably keep about five players at the position during the season.
Outside help possibilities:
There isn’t a lot of options in free agency, but others can emerge in early September if the Raiders are still waiting for Wilkins to return. Currently, the top free-agent options include Raekwon Davis, Austin Johnson, Linval Joseph, former Raiders’ draft pick Maurice Hurst, Jordan Phillips and Quinton Jefferson.
The next step:
Really, all anyone can do at the moment is to remain patient. Yes, Wilkins’ rehab is taking over and and there was a setback, but we just have to let the process play out. If he doesn’t come back by mid-August, it will then be time to wonder if he will miss playing during the regular season, which begins September 7 at New England. It’s a perfect situation, but that’s what is the current reality.
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