MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 27: Christian Wilkins #94 of the Miami Dolphins reacts after a tackle during the first quarter in the game against the Houston Texans at Hard Rock Stadium on November 27, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. – Big, aggressive and athletic, Miami Dolphins free agent defensive tackle Christian Wilkins has displayed a knack for ruining game plans.
With Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones back with the Super Bowl champs on a five-year, $158.75 million deal and Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike signed to a four-year, $98 million contract, Wilkins is now the top defensive tackle available. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans has made it clear that the defending AFC South champions will prioritize the defensive line this offseason.
A former first-round draft pick from Clemson, Wilkins is stout and mobile inside at 6-foot-4, 310 pounds. He could be an outstanding fit for Ryans’ 4-3 scheme The Texans have a lot of respect for defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, who had six sacks last season after signing a one-year, $10.5 million contract last offseason. No deal is imminent for Rankins at this time, per sources, but the door is not closed on his potential return as both sides have mutual interest in extending their business relationship.