Here’s What We Know about Christian Wilkins Release
Christian Wilkins, the star defensive tackle who signed a massive $110 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders just last year, was unexpectedly released earlier this month…and it turns out, there may be more to the story than just his injury.
While most headlines point to a disagreement over surgery and rehab after his foot injury, a surprising report recently came out that a locker room incident with a teammate may have helped push the Raiders to cut ties.
Yes, it’s as wild as it sounds.
👀 So, What Happened?
Let’s start with the obvious:
Wilkins fractured his foot (a Jones fracture) during the 2024 season and was placed on injured reserve. The Raiders wanted him to undergo a second surgery, but Wilkins declined. That decision sparked tension with the team, especially when they tried to void over $35 million in guaranteed money from his contract.
But here’s the twist:
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Wilkins “playfully” kissed a teammate on top of the head in the locker room — something that clearly didn’t land well. The teammate reportedly took offense, and it led to a formal complaint being filed with HR. This moment wasn’t the sole reason for Wilkins’ release, but insiders say it may have been the final straw in an already rocky situation.
💬 “There were multiple things happening behind the scenes, and this incident may have been a contributing factor,” one league source shared.
(via ESPN & The Pat McAfee Show)
💼 Why This Is a Big Deal
Let’s be real: NFL locker rooms are known for their tough-guy energy. But this story is a reminder that even light-hearted or affectionate gestures (if that’s what it was) don’t always translate well — especially in professional settings. Workplace dynamics matter, even in sports.
Combine that with a very public disagreement over surgery, contract terms, and nearly $50 million in guaranteed money still on the table… and you’ve got a recipe for a messy exit.
📝 Quick Recap
| 💡 What Went Down | 🗂️ Details |
|---|---|
| Injury Drama | Wilkins broke his foot and refused additional surgery the Raiders recommended. |
| HR Complaint | A “playful kiss” on a teammate’s head led to a formal complaint. |
| Release Fallout | Raiders released Wilkins and are trying to void $35.2M in guarantees. Wilkins is fighting it via the NFLPA. |
| Stats Before Exit | 5 games, 17 tackles, 2 sacks with the Raiders before injury. |
✨ Final Thoughts
Was it just the injury drama? Or did this locker room moment really make a difference?
We may never know the full story, but it’s clear the Raiders weren’t just dealing with medical issues — there were cultural and interpersonal concerns behind closed doors, too. And in today’s NFL, that stuff matters just as much as what happens on the field.
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