DT Christian Wilkins hopes to remain with Dolphins

The 27-year-old is set to play on his fifth-year option in 2023, which will earn him $10.7M. Negotiations for a multi-year deal worth much more than that began in March, at the onset of an offseason which has seen the DT position’s value rise substantially around the league. That development has no doubt complicated talks in this situation.

A report from last month indicated that little (if any) progress had been made with respect to extension talks. Wilkins has shown his worth throughout his four-year Miami tenure, and he logged a career-high snap share of 84% in 2022. While his skillset is more suited to run defense, the Clemson product has recorded eight sacks across the past two seasons, a figure which will add to his value on a new contract. Working out an agreement this offseason remains his intention.

“Miami is home,” Wilkins said without delving into the specifics of where negotiations currently stand, via Aaron Wilson of KPRC2. “That’s where I got drafted. That’s where I love. That’s where I want to be.”

The Dolphins have not only a new deal for Wilkins to work out, but also one for fellow D-lineman Zach Sieler. Finalizing those pacts will require plenty of attention in the remainder of the offseason, though the availability of running back Dalvin Cook represents an immediate concern as well. Miami currently has $13.6M in 2023 cap space, but its financial outlook for next year is far more bleak.

There are thus a number of moving parts to consider in the Wilkins situation. His importance to the Dolphins’ defense – a unit which, under new DC Vic Fangio is facing signficant expectations this season – is well understood, though, and he should remain productive for several years given his durability to date in his career. With training camp approaching, it will be interesting to monitor how much traction can be found in contract talks in the coming days.