The Raiders are making big moves this offseason, opting for quality over quantity on the defensive line. Instead of flooding the defensive tackle position like they did in 2023, they decided to invest in a superstar: Christian Wilkins.
Key Highlights:
- Christian Wilkins' Stats:
- Ranked No. 10 among interior pass rushers for 2024 by Pro Football Focus.
- Fourth-best PFF run-defense grade among all interior defenders over the past two seasons.
- Career-high 61 quarterback pressures in 2023.
Wilkins might not have a Pro Bowl appearance under his belt yet, but his talent is undeniable. Over the past several seasons, he has consistently been one of the top interior pass rushers in the NFL.
Pro Football Focus recently highlighted Wilkins in their ranking of the top 32 interior pass rushers heading into the 2024 season. The former Clemson standout has been a force for the Miami Dolphins, and his stats prove it.
The Raiders are hoping that adding Wilkins to their lineup will take some of the pass-rush pressure off Maxx Crosby. And it's not just his pass-rushing skills that make Wilkins a great catch for Las Vegas—his run defense is stellar too, which is something the Raiders were keen to improve this offseason.
This move by the Raiders looks like a slam dunk. With Wilkins in the fold, they now boast one of the most exciting and talented defensive lines in the NFL.
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