NFL free agency hits its unofficial beginning as the franchise tag period gets underway.
Christian Wilkins is trading in his aqua and orange for silver and black.
The former Miami Dolphins star defensive tackle agreed to a four-year, $110 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Monday.
Wilkins now joins fellow standout Maxx Crosby on a loaded Raiders defensive line.
For the Dolphins, they lose a key piece in the middle of their defense. Additionally, Bradley Chubb suffered a torn ACL in Week 17 and Jaelan Phillips tore his Achilles in November, which could further hinder their D-line to open next season.
Last season, the 28-year-old Wilkins posted a career-high nine sacks and 23 quarterback hits for Miami. He was among the top defensive players on the market this offseason, especially after the pre-free agency signings and tags of Chris Jones, Josh Allen, Justin Madubuike and Brian Burns.
After signing Wilkins, the Raiders' strategy is becoming abundantly clear. They are trying to build a dominant pass-rush to keep up with division rival Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. Crosby had 14.5 sacks last season, and the team had 10 QB hits in their Christmas Day win over the Chiefs.
NFL
New head coach Antonio Pierce brings a defensive background to Las Vegas, and their first big splash under new general manager Tom Telesco signals an emphasis on that side of the ball.
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