NFL star Christian Wilkins reportedly released by Las Vegas Raiders after kissing teammate
Christian Wilkins has been released by the Raiders. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
Christian Wilkins has been released by the Raiders. (Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
NFL star Christian Wilkins was reported released by the Las Vegas Raiders after kissing another player on the top of his head.
A source detailed to alleged incident to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, stating that the teammate reportedly found the gesture offensive.
However, sources said the alleged incident was not the only reason for Wilkins to be let go.
Defensive tackle Wilkins had been recovering from a fracture to his left foot but, because of how the former Miami Dolphins star had treated his rehab, the Raiders voided the remaining $35.2 million (£26.5 million) of guaranteed money left on his contract, according to ESPN.
NFL Media reported that Wilkins refused to get another procedure done on his foot, despite being asked to do so by the Raiders, who released him with a “terminated vested veteran” designation, which led him to file a grievance with the Players Association.
A Raiders spokesperson said: “We have decided that it is in the best interests of the organisation to move on from Christian Wilkins and he has been informed of his release from the team.
“This franchise has a commitment to excellence on and off the field. With no clear path or plan for future return to play from Christian, this transaction is necessary for the entire organisation to move forward and prepare for the new season.”
The Raiders released Carl Nassib, who had made history as the league’s first openly gay active player, in 2022. The defensive end had made headlines during the off-season when he came out in a video posted on his Instagram account.
In a second video, where he reflected on his decision to come out, Nassib, who also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Cleveland Browns, said it was one of the most “stressful” things he had done.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
