The Las Vegas Raiders are one of the many teams that have taken a new head coach during the offseason. Pete Carroll is at the helm now and with him, a new culture is brewing. Known for his defensive background, he wil make sure Maxx Crosby takes another leap as one of the bets pass rushers in the NFL. Thereâs also another defensive lineman who should thrive, but is facing some issues.
That name is Christian Wilkins, who became a household player during his time in Miami. Last season, the Raiders signed him but he could only start on five games. Unfortunately, it seems like injuries are still hampering Wilkins, as he has been placed in the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to a foot injury.
This is the same injury that ended his 2024 season. According to the reports from NFL Network, Wilkins will be eligible to come off the PUP list whenever the Raiders see him fit.
The Raiders need Wilkins to perform
Not only do they need the defensive tackle to be a presence to fear in the defensive line, but also, they have plenty of money tied to Wilkins. He signed a 4-year, $110 million contract to go to Sin City.
Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins #94 of the Las Vegas Raiders stretches during an OTA offseason workout at the Las Vegas Raiders Headquarters
Wilkins will turn 30 this season, which means his prime will not last for long and the Raiders already saw one of those years gone to waste last season. The NFL is merciless so if Wilkins is not able to perform this season, the Raiders might look for ways to opt out of this contract. They need someone to help Maxx Crosby get to opposing quarterbacks.
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Tom Brady makes something clear about his new role with Raiders
Pete Carroll can enhance defenses
While Carroll is famous for being one of the few coaches to win at both collegiate and NFL level, his rings are not the only thing that make him a Hall of Fame name. He was the architect behind one of the NFLâs best defenses of all time, the Legion Of Boom.
Carroll knows how to exploit his players to their full potential. While he will hope to have Wilkins sooner rather than later, he will also be looking for the next man up.
