CONGRATULATION: Cincinnati Bengals on the deal completed as they exchange hands.
CINCINNATI — ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that Dolphins star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is likely to become a free agent later this month.
“While Miami’s stance is that all options are on the table for defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, several league sources say he probably won’t be franchise-tagged,” Fowler stated in an email. “That would make a big-time tackle who had 63 tackles and nine sacks in 2023 available. Houston is fascinating here. The Texans have plenty of cap room, a quarterback on his rookie contract, and a playoff roster. However, there would be multiple teams involved. For example, the Browns can always make a splash. Would the versatile DT add to an already strong defense?
the tires of a dominant defensive tackle, such as Wilkins. It will cost them, but they should consider making a push to acquire a 28-year-old former first-round pick who can be a force in the heart of Lou Anarumo’s defense.
Marion Hobby, the Bengals’ defensive line coach, previously coached Wilkins at Clemson for two seasons. DJ Reader and Wilkins were teammates for one year. Could the Bengals re-sign Reader and add Wilkins for a formidable combo in the trenches?
With Justin Madubuike projected to be franchised and Chris Jones likely to re-sign with the Chiefs, Wilkins might be the highest-paid defensive tackle in this class.The Bengals don’t generally venture into those waters—and while they could target several veterans, including Grover Stewart and Sheldon Rankins, adding Wilkins would be a game changer. They have the cap room to do so.
Would they be willing to provide him a guaranteed salary in year two or three? That’s a significant question when it comes to the Bengals signing Wilkins.
The Dolphins have until Tuesday, March 5, to place the franchise tag on the former first-round pick.