The Las Vegas Raiders have stunned the NFL community yet again—this time with a move that could shift the course of their 2025 season. On Friday, the team announced that prized defensive tackle Christian Wilkins has been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
This development comes as a major surprise, especially considering the massive $110 million deal Wilkins signed just this offseason. The former Miami Dolphins standout was expected to anchor the Raiders’ defensive line and inject dominance into a unit that has long struggled to stop the run. Now, fans and analysts alike are left wondering what’s really going on behind the scenes.
Wilkins had shown no public signs of injury during minicamp, OTAs, or media appearances. He was vocal about his excitement to join Maxx Crosby and bolster what was supposed to be one of the league’s most fearsome defensive fronts. His absence raises more questions than answers.
The timing couldn’t be worse. With the AFC West shaping up to be a brutal battleground—especially with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and now Bo Nix rising fast in Denver—the Raiders were counting on Wilkins to be the cornerstone of their defense. Placing him on the PUP list means he’ll be sidelined for at least the beginning of training camp, and if his status lingers into the regular season, it could mean serious trouble for Vegas.
The Raiders, under new leadership, have tried to bring toughness and consistency back to the franchise. But Wilkins’ sudden removal from team activities sparks speculation: is this just precautionary, or is there a more serious, undisclosed injury in play? The team has not released any further medical information, fueling a frenzy of theories across NFL Twitter and Reddit.
Fans are also drawing parallels to other high-priced free agent signings that fizzled due to health concerns. Some fear the franchise may have overcommitted once again. Others believe the front office is simply being cautious to protect its investment.
One thing is clear: this situation will be watched closely over the coming weeks. The Raiders are a team on the edge—brimming with potential but always one moment away from chaos. And this latest twist with Christian Wilkins might just be the spark that leads to…..
