Buffalo Bills Eyeing Former Star Defensive Tackle Christian Wilkins

Wilkins, who was released by the Raiders due to a locker room incident, is expected to have a new team soon as he recovers from a foot injury.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:52pm

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The Buffalo Bills are in need of added firepower at defensive tackle, and former Miami Dolphins and Las Vegas Raiders star Christian Wilkins could be the answer. Wilkins, a six-year NFL veteran, is currently a free agent as he recovers from a foot injury that ended his 2024 season with the Raiders. However, Wilkins is expected to return to the field in 2026, and 26 teams have already reached out to express interest in signing him.

Why it matters

The Bills' defensive line struggled to both rush the passer and stop the run last season, so adding a talented player like Wilkins could provide a significant boost. While Wilkins' character has been a concern in the past due to a "bizarre locker room incident" that led to his release from the Raiders, the Bills have shown a willingness to take chances on players with off-field issues, as evidenced by their recent signing of free agent defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson.

The details

Wilkins began his career with the Miami Dolphins, where he recorded his most productive season as a pro in 2023, finishing with 9 sacks, 23 quarterback hits, 10 tackles for loss, and 2 fumble recoveries. Even during his brief 5-game stint with the Raiders in 2024, Wilkins finished with a couple of sacks and 13 quarterback pressures. If healthy, Wilkins would bring added pass-rush ability to the interior of the Bills' defensive line.

  • Wilkins sustained a foot injury that ended his 2024 season with the Raiders.
  • Wilkins was released by the Raiders due to a "bizarre locker room incident" following the injury.
  • Wilkins is currently a free agent but is expected to have a new team as soon as he is ready to return to the field in 2026.

The players

Christian Wilkins

A 6-year NFL veteran defensive tackle who has played for the Miami Dolphins and Las Vegas Raiders. Wilkins is currently a free agent as he recovers from a foot injury.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson

A free agent defensive back who the Buffalo Bills recently signed, despite Gardner-Johnson having spent time with four teams over the past five seasons and being involved in some locker room controversy.

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What they’re saying

“Free agent Christian Wilkins fully intends to play this season, but still is rehabbing his foot injury, per his agent David Mulugheta. So far, 26 teams have reached out and are waiting for Wilkins to be ready, and Wilkins is expected to have a new home as soon as he wants.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Bills will likely wait to see how Wilkins' recovery from his foot injury progresses before deciding whether to pursue signing him.

The takeaway

The Bills' willingness to take a chance on players with off-field issues, combined with their need for improved defensive line play, makes Christian Wilkins an intriguing free agent target for the team as he looks to revive his NFL career in 2026.