Christian Wilkins

Wilkins emerged as an elite run defender in 2021 and 2022, but like most interior defensive linemen, he didn't have much production in terms of getting to the quarterback. That all changed in 2023 when he posted a career-high nine sacks in a contract year. Though there's some reason to be wary about that increased production, there's also plenty to indicate Wilkins can at least come close to replicating his ability to get after the quarterback in 2024 after landing a massive deal in free agency with Las Vegas. First is his role. Last year was his breakout in terms of stats, but his role truly changed in 2022 when he was in a pass-rushing role on a career-high 587 snaps (per PFF). Given that the Raiders invested $110 million to land Wilkins, they surely won't be looking to cut back on his responsibilities. The change of scenery should also be beneficial to Wilkins because Maxx Crosby is among the better run-stopping ends in the league, which should free up defensive coordinator Patrick Graham to scheme creative pass rushes for Wilkins. That puts him in position to be one of the most productive interior linemen in the league.