Christian Wilkins Returns, Teams Scramble for Elite DT

0:00It's March 21st, here's your NFL news in two minutes. Subscribe to stay locked in all season. Free agent defensive tackle Christian Wilkins plans to return this season after missing all of last year with a foot injury. His agent says 26 teams have already shown strong interest and are waiting for him to finish rehab. At his peak, Wilkins is an elite run defender and interior pass rusher, making him a hot name on the market. Earlier this year, the Las Vegas Raiders released him following a messy situation. Wilkins had signed a $110 million contract after a breakout year with nine sacks in 2023. But he only played five games before suffering a Jones fracture and disputes over his recovery led to the split. Reports point to disagreements on whether he needed more surgery, plus an off-field incident that rubbed some teammates the wrong way. Wilkins' issues have made teams cautious, and he's still not fully healthy. On the bright side, all that baggage means he could sign for a bargain price.

1:00Teams like the nearer Giants, Washington commanders, and Green Bay Packers stand a benefit most. The Giants won a true run stuff for to pair with Dexter Lawrence. Washington struggled against the run last season, despite some additions, while Green Bay traded away key linemen and needs more juice up front. If Wilkins gets back anywhere near his best, he could transform a defensive line overnight and prove to be the steal of free agency.