Wilkins will make $10.753M in 2023.
It seemed inevitable that the Miami Dolphins would exercise the 5th year option on defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. But as the deadline started to inch closer and one player after another started to get their 5th-year option picked up, I started to wonder if general manager Chris Grier and new head coach Mike McDaniel were going to make a big mistake.
Narrator: They Did Not.
According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, the Dolphins have officially picked up Wilkins’ fifth-year option which is estimated to be worth $10.753M in 2023.
The Dolphins are exercising the 5th year option on DT Christian Wilkins, per source.
Miami views Wilkins as a foundational player for their defensive identity with his energy and work ethic. A lot of steady improvement since being drafted including a strong 2021 campaign.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) April 28, 2022
Wilkins was selected by the Dolphins in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. The former Clemson Tiger was selected with the 13th overall pick after a stellar collegiate career. During his three seasons with Miami, Wilkins played 2100 total defensive snaps.
In 2021, Wilkins played 734 snaps, or 65% of Miami’s defensive snaps. During his three seasons with Miami, he accumulated 192 tackles (82 solo) 8 sacks, 11 pass breakups, an interception, and a fumble recovery. He also had a receiving touchdown last season vs. the New York Jets.
tua to christian wilkins pic.twitter.com/yP8fvCY0C2
— josh houtz (@houtz) December 19, 2021
Wilkins is a valuable leader in the locker room and someone that has improved year after year. I am happy to have him back on the Miami Dolphins.
What are your thoughts on the Miami Dolphins exercising Christian Wilkins 5th year option? Do you think the Dolphins will lock him up long-term? Would you look him up long-term? What are your thoughts on Miami’s defensive line? Are you excited for tonight’s NFL Draft? Let us know in the comments section below!