The defensive tackle market took form late Saturday night, when the Kansas City Chiefs and Chris Jones agreed on a large contract extension less than a week before free agency began. Jones got a five-year contract worth $95 million in guaranteed money, setting a new benchmark for the expense of a good defensive lineman. With Jones out, Miami’s Christian Wilkins will emerge as one of the top defensive lineman available.
The Dolphins decided not to franchise tag Wilkins, allowing him to enter free agency. In his five NFL seasons, he has 20.5 sacks, with a career-high 9.5 in 2023.
The Detroit Lions could be in the running to make a splash at the position, as general manager Brad Holmes has the resources to assist the team enhance its squad. As a result, a recent ESPN article listed the Lions as one of the prospective bidders for Wilkins. “After Chris Jones landed a big deal on Saturday night, Miami’s Christian Wilkins is likely to be a hot name, with contending teams such as the Texans and Lions looking to upgrade at that position,” wrote Dan Graziano in his piece.
Get 93% off your first month. Subscribe today for $1. GET ACCESS SKIP TO CONTENT LOG IN SUBSCRIBE NOW Part of the McClatchy Media Network Local News Restaurants Chiefs Politics Opinion • Personal Finance Betting Obituaries Entertainment Shopping FOOTBALL Could Detroit Lions Win Christian Wilkins Sweepstakes? BY JOHN MAAKARON SPORTS ILLUSTRATED DETROIT LIONS NEWS, ANALYSIS AND MORE UPDATED MARCH 10, 2024 3:50 PM The defensive tackle market took shape late Saturday night, as the Kansas City Chiefs and Chris Jones agreed to a hefty contract extension less than a week before free agency begins. Jones signed a five-year deal worth $95 million in guaranteed money, which sets a new standard for the cost of a talented defensive lineman. With Jones unavailable, eyes will turn to Miami’s Christian Wilkins as one of the top defensive linemen available. The Dolphins elected not to franchise tag Wilkins, which will allow him to enter free agency. In his five NFL seasons, he has totaled 20.5 sacks including a career-high 9.5 in 2023. The Detroit Lions could be in play to make a splash at the position, as general manager Brad Holmes has the resources available to help the team improve their roster. As a result, a recent report from ESPN tied the Lions in amongst the potential market of suitors for Wilkins. “After Chris Jones landed a big deal on Saturday night, Miami’s Christian Wilkins is likely to be a hot name, with contending teams such as the Texans and Lions looking to upgrade at that position,” Dan Graziano wrote. Related: Roundtable: Sleeper Draft Prospects Lions Could Target Here are other storylines surrounding the Detroit Lions on March 10. The Detroit News provided a comprehensive look at where the Lions stand heading into free agency in terms of cap space and potential resources. Detroit Free Press beat writer Dave Birkett made predictions for whether each of the Lions’ current free agents will return in 2024. With the Oscars set for tonight, the Lions’ social media team released a series of graphics depicting their players in movie posters.
