Raiders' Star Defensive Tackle Christian Wilkins Faces Indefinite Absence Due to Foot Surgery

HENDERSON, Nev. -- In a crushing blow to the Las Vegas Raiders, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins is set to miss an undetermined amount of games after undergoing surgery for a Jones fracture in his left foot. This news was confirmed by a league source to ESPN on Tuesday.

Wilkins, who made headlines earlier this season after signing a massive four-year contract worth $110 million, which includes $84.75 million guaranteed, experienced discomfort during the Raiders' recent loss to the Denver Broncos. Despite the pain, Wilkins decided to play through it, showcasing his determination. However, the injury proved to be more serious than initially anticipated.

During the game, Wilkins was a standout performer, successfully notching his second sack of the season just before halftime. However, celebrations took a toll when teammate Adam Butler inadvertently landed on Wilkins, prompting concerns about his condition. The talented defensive tackle was sidelined for the remainder of the game and was spotted in the locker room wearing a protective boot.

Wilkins’ absence will be deeply felt as the Raiders prepare to face the formidable Pittsburgh Steelers this upcoming Sunday. The team will have to rally in his absence and figure out a way to fill the gap left by a player who has contributed significantly over the first five games of the season, recording 17 tackles (11 solo), 2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, and 6 quarterback hits. Wilkins previously achieved a career-high of nine sacks last season with the Miami Dolphins, having been drafted in the first round out of Clemson in 2019.

The timing couldn’t be worse for Las Vegas, which is already facing tough competition in the league. Wilkins has not missed a game since 2020, making his current situation all the more alarming for fans and teammates alike.

With the Raiders’ defensive lineup taking a hit, the pressure is now on the rest of the squad to step up and adapt. Will they be able to rise to the challenge without their star defensive tackle? Stay tuned, as the Raiders’ season hangs in the balance!