After often looking like one of the best teams in the NFL in 2023, now the Miami Dolphins face the challenge of improving ahead of a new season. The good news is all of the team’s best players are set to return for Mike McDaniel, with Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Jalen Ramsey all under contract for 2024.
Related: See where Tua Tagovailoa lands in Sportsnaut’s NFL QB rankings
But there are several others who have expiring contracts, such as star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. If he reached free agency, Wilkins is expected to be one of the most desirable players available.
Spotrac estimates Wilkins’ contract value to be worth an annual salary of $20.2 million. Then, we have teams like the Minnesota Vikings, whose defense is led by Brian Flores, who coached Wilkins in Miami. Not to mention, Micah Parsons is already calling for the Dallas Cowboys to add a big defensive tackle, and Wilkins could fit the bill.
Yet, just because other teams want Wilkins, it doesn’t mean Miami is willing to let the 28-year-old defender leave in free agency.
Christian Wilkins emerges as legitimate Miami Dolphins franchise tag candidate
Having played all five seasons in South Beach, the Miami Dolphins know what they have in Christian Wilkins, yet for whatever reason, they’ve been unable to reach a long-term extension with their starting defensive tackle. But that doesn’t mean he’s not in their future plans.
“(The Dolphins) don’t plan on letting Christian Wilkins leave, and if that means franchising him, that’s likely what they’ll do.”
ESPN’s Dan Graziano on Christian Wilkins’ future with Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins are set to enter the offseason in a tough spot in regards to the salary cap, with over $40 million needed to be cleared from their books before making major offseason moves. The franchise tag for defensive tackles is expected to be in the range of $21 million for one season.
Teams have used the franchise tag on defensive tackles just four times since 2017, but if there’s a player worth spending more on, it’s Wilkins. He’s coming off one of his most productive seasons yet, where he racked up 65 tackles (10 for loss), nine sacks, a forced fumble, and two pass deflections while starting all 17 games.
