The Miami Dolphins have already made a number of big moves this offseason, but one move that they have not yet made is extending defensive lineman Christian Wilkins.
Though an extension has not yet been agreed on, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel recently made it clear that one could come soon.
McDaniel offered an update on the issue and said that the team and Wilkins have been having constant conversations about a new deal.
Asked here in Arizona if there is progress on a Christian Wilkins extension, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said yes. McDaniel added there are constant conversations and it is a Miami priority.
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) March 29, 2023
At the moment, Wilkins is set to play the 2023 season on his fifth-year rookie option that will pay him $10.8 million. An extension could lower his 2023 cap hit.
“But the Dolphins are expected to explore striking a long-term deal with him this offseason, one that could lower his 2023 cap hit,” the Miami Herald‘s Barry Jackson wrote. “The Dolphins want to keep him around for a long time.”
Wilkins has been an anchor for years with Miami and essentially been a full-time starter since his rookie year. After being drafted with the No. 13 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Wilkins has started in all but four games he’s appeared in. Over the last two seasons, Wilkins has started every game he’s played in.
To make matters even more impressive, the defensive lineman hasn’t missed a game over the last two seasons.
In those two seasons, Wilkins has been a dominant force, recording 108 solo tackles to go along with 26 tackles for loss, eight sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
Though the Dolphins defense took a bit of a step back last season, Wilkins surely has what it takes to be part of an impressive unit. Given how the Dolphins have operated this offseason, it seems relatively clear that the team has every intention of improving on the defensive side.
The additions of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and star cornerback Jalen Ramsey are seen as major wins.
When it comes to Fangio’s defensive scheme, a lot of emphasis will likely be put on Wilkins and his teammates on the defensive line. The reason for that is because Fangio is known for often depending on his lineman to cause enough pressure while dropping linebackers into coverage.
