There are former Clemson stars all over the NFL, with multiple in this 2024 free agency and looking for new contracts, possibly with new teams.
Two of the biggest names in free agency are defensive tackles Christian Wilkins and DJ Reader. The two are arguably the top defensive players on their current (possibly former) teams, the Miami Dolphins for Wilkins and the Cincinnati Bengals for Reader. They also remain two of the top players at the position.
ESPN recently released an article naming key free agency moves for all 32 NFL teams, with Wilkins and Reader both being named. For Reader, it is with the Miami Dolphins and seemingly replacing Wilkins on that defensive line.
Defensive tackles Christian Wilkins, Raekwon Davis and Da’Shawn Hand are free agents this offseason, so the Dolphins are going to need help up front. Why not steal from another top AFC contender while shoring up the middle of their defense? Reader doesn’t get big stats, but he does soak up double-teams and is an even stronger pass-rusher than he is a run-stopper. Note that Reader suffered a torn quadriceps injury in Week 15, so the Dolphins would want to make sure he’s ready to go for the start of the 2024 season before making this signing.
This move would make sense, especially if Wilkins will not be a Dolphin in 2024. He would likely be a cheaper option who can make a similar impact. Wilkins may be younger, but Reader is still a baller.
For Wilkins, it is joining an elite defense, the Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland’s defense was a primary reason the Browns were able to overcome injuries and make the playoffs, but they need help on the defensive line. Defensive tackles Shelby Harris, Jordan Elliott and Maurice Hurst II are all free agents, leaving a space open next to Dalvin Tomlinson. Wilkins had nine sacks, 35 pressure and 63 combined tackles for the Dolphins last season. He ranked 13th in pass rush win rate among interior linemen while taking on a lot of double-teams, and he’s a very strong run defender.
Wilkins would be huge addition for the Browns. That defense and defensive line are already elite, but Wilkins is a different animal. He would step right into that unit and bring a completely different level of play at the position.
Both landing spots make sense and would be interesting to watch.