HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is currently navigating an uncertain recovery period following a broken foot he sustained last season, and he’s not on the verge of a return, Las Vegas coach Pete Carroll stated Wednesday.
While Wilkins attended the organized team activities practice, he did not take part in drills and instead engaged in additional work on the sidelines afterward.
“It’s been a challenging recovery, and he’s done everything required of him,” Carroll remarked. “He’s here every day, showing up early and putting in hard work. However, he’s not yet ready to rejoin the team. We’re in the midst of a lengthy and demanding recovery process. Thankfully, we have ample time, and we will utilize it wisely to approach our work with care.”
Wilkins, who is 29 years old, signed a four-year contract worth $110 million last year, which includes $82.75 million guaranteed.
He was anticipated to strengthen a defensive line led by pass rushers Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce, having recorded a career-high nine sacks in 2023 with Miami, alongside his exceptional run-stopping skills. However, all three linemen were sidelined by season-ending injuries.
In the five games before his injury, Wilkins achieved two sacks and 17 tackles, but faced a setback that required surgical intervention. He suffered a Jones fracture, which is a break in the bone linking the pinkie toe to the base of the foot.
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