Oct 6, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates his sack in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Christian Wilkins Released Due To Foot Injury

Originally posted on Raiders Newswire | By Matt Peralta | Last updated Jul 25, 2025 8:26 PM ET

The Las Vegas Raiders are hoping the new regime of head coach Pete Carroll, general manager John Spytek and minority owner Tom Brady can turn the franchise around after years of disappointing finishes.

The Raiders are going to be an interesting team to watch during the 2025 season, as they have some intriguing new pieces to work with. Geno Smith brings stability to the quarterback position, while Ashton Jeanty will serve as his running mate in the backfield.

Defensively, Maxx Crosby is the clear alpha of the group, though there’s some young talent waiting in the wings. However, the defensive line remains a question after Crosby, as there isn’t much depth or high-end talent.

Christian Wilkins was expected to form a strong pass rush tandem with Crosby, but he was shockingly released by Las Vegas via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:

A stunner: The #Raiders are releasing standout DT Christian Wilkins, the former prize of free agency after just one season of a four-year, $110M deal, sources say.

Wilkins, who has been dealing with a serious foot injury, is on the books for $57.5M fully guaranteed. pic.twitter.com/j1NAxo7sPb

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 24, 2025

Following news of Wilkins’ release, the team issued an official statement via the Raiders’ X account:

“We have decided that it is in the best interests of the organization to move on from Christian Wilkins and he has been informed of his release from the team. This franchise has a Commitment to Excellence on and off the field. With no clear path or plan for future return to play from Christian, this transaction is necessary for the entire organization to move forward and prepare for the new season.”

The Raiders and Wilkins were embroiled in a dispute over whether the defensive tackle should undergo surgery on his foot, and now they part ways in a disappointing fashion. Las Vegas targeted Wilkins early in free agency last year, but he failed to make much of an impact as he recorded just 17 tackles and two sacks in five games before getting hurt.

Wilkins will be a popular target for teams if he can prove he’s healthy moving forward, but it’s another tough loss for a Las Vegas squad that now needs to find a replacement up front.