Exciting News: Vikings’ Top Free Agency Target Linked to Brian Flores
As free agency approaches in about a week, a player perfectly fitting the Minnesota Vikings’ needs is set to become available on the market, unrestricted.
According to reports from The Phinsider, the Miami Dolphins have opted not to apply the franchise tag to defensive lineman Christian Wilkins ahead of tomorrow’s 3:00 PM Central deadline, paving the way for him to explore free agency.
Selected as the Dolphins’ first-round pick (#13 overall) in the 2019 NFL Draft from Clemson, Wilkins has spent his entire five-year NFL career with the Dolphins, establishing himself as a standout interior lineman, particularly in pass rushing. In the past season, Wilkins started in all 17 games, maintaining an impressive attendance record since 2020, and recorded 65 combined tackles along with nine quarterback sacks.
Despite the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive improvements under Brian Flores from 2022 to 2023, they still struggled notably in generating pressure from the interior. Flores, having coached Wilkins during his tenure as the Dolphins’ head coach from 2019 to 2021, would be well acquainted with Wilkins’ capabilities. Pursuing him could significantly bolster the Vikings’ pass rush.
Even if the Vikings manage to secure Danielle Hunter’s return, Wilkins should remain their top priority in free agency. His presence would enhance the defense across all levels, easing pressure on what appears to be a youthful secondary.
While the franchise tag for Wilkins amounts to $22.1 million, which the Dolphins declined to commit for this year, it wouldn’t be surprising if Wilkins commands a similar figure from potential suitors.
Should the Vikings aggressively pursue Christian Wilkins in free agency next week?
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