Chargers have potential blockbuster move after AFC West rival's flub

The Los Angeles Chargers could have a blockbuster addition at their fingertips thanks to a flop by an AFC West rival.

Jul 17, 2025; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh at press conference during training camp at The Bolt. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers didn't really add many notable players in free agency this offseason, that in spite of boasting massive cap room.

However, a huge potential addition just became available for the Chargers thanks to a rather strange move from the Las Vegas Raiders: defensive lineman Christian Wilkins.

The Raiders cut Wilkins — who they had previously signed to a four-year, $110 million contract last offseason — following a disagreement over how he handled his rehab from a foot injury. Las Vegas even voided $35.4 million of his guarantees.

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Wilkins is now a free agent, and while his timetable for return is still uncertain, could it really hurt the Chargers to take a chance on the former Miami Dolphins star?

Remember: back in 2023, Wilkins racked up 65 tackles and nine sacks, which led to his monster deal with the Raiders in the first place. He then played in just five games with Las Vegas last year due to the foot injury, and it is obviously fair to question if he will ever be the same player again.

Here is the thing, though: Wilkins is still just 29 years old, so it's not like he is ancient. He can probably be had on affordable one-year, incentive-laden contract at this point, and let's face it: interior defensive line is an area of need for the Chargers after losing Poona Ford.

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Of course, none us know Wilkins' medicals. Perhaps there are too many red flags here for Los Angeles to even take a flier on him. But if everything checks out, there shouldn't be any harm in the Chargers bringing the veteran aboard to see what he has left in the tank.

Sep 22, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates after getting a sack against the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images | Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

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