Steelers are reportedly set to land a projected $81 million star
The Pittsburgh Steelers were not one of the teams debating what to do with their franchise tag for the 2024 NFL season on March 5, but one decision made that day could have an impact on their future.
The Miami Dolphins decided not to use the franchise tag on Christian Wilkins, allowing the star defensive tackle to test free agency this offseason.
The move surprised everyone because Wilkins has been a standout player for the Dolphins in recent years, and they hadn’t used the tag on anyone else.
Now, teams across the league will have the opportunity to add some star power to their rosters.
Steelers Nation’s Stuart Miller-Davis believes Wilkins’ free agency presents an opportunity for the Steelers to capitalize on this offseason.
Wilkins’ 5 Strong Years With the Dolphins
Wilkins has been a reliable starter for the Dolphins since they selected him 13th overall in the 2019 draft.
During his rookie season, he recorded 56 tackles and two sacks.
However, it wasn’t until his third year in the league that he truly elevated his game.
He recorded 89 tackles in 2021. Ten of them resulted in losses. He also tallied 4.5 sacks and 17 pressures.
The following year, he totaled 98 tackles, 16 of which were for a loss, and 15 pressures.
In 2023, Wilkins was once again a nuisance for opposing offenses, and he really found his stride as a pass rusher.
His tackle total decreased, but he still managed to record 10 tackles for loss.
Wilkins was a pass rusher with 9 sacks and 30 pressures.
Wilkins, who has demonstrated his ability to be an asset against both the run and the pass, is sure to receive a lot of attention when he enters free agency.
He just might not be the right move for the Steelers in 2024.
Would the Move Make Sense for the Steelers?
At first glance, signing Wilkins appears to be a great move for the Steelers.
They require defensive line reinforcements for the 2024 season, as Larry Ogunjobi’s disappointing 2023 season may persuade the team to replace him.
They should also start planning for the future of their D-line. Cameron Heyward will be 35 years old in 2024, and he spent last season dealing with a major groin injury. Next season may be his last in the league.
The team needs to start planning how they will replace him.
However, Wilkins may not be the solution.
First, there is the cost. Wilkins is currently projected by Sportrac to earn just under $81 million over four years on his next contract, which could be low.
It would be a lot of money to spend on a position that isn’t necessarily urgent for a team with limited cap space.
The other issue is Wilkins’ age.
The star DT has only been in the NFL for five seasons but is already 28 years old.
That means he could begin to show signs of decline before his four-year contract expires, and even if he doesn’t, the Steelers will most likely be looking to replace a star defensive tackle again in four years.
There is no doubt that Wilkins would improve the Steelers’ roster for the 2024 season, but this move appears to be a luxury that the team cannot afford right now.