Christian Wilkins

By Lucas Kochevar

       When you turn on Christian Wilkins' tape the immediate thing to bring up is his ability to penetrate. Wilkins does a great job at finding a way get in the way. If he doesn't get through he has the talent to move the O-Linemen with him. It often takes a double team to stop him from pushing through. He does have versatility with him as he often lines up anywhere from a 0 technique to a 5 technique. For those who don't know what that is, it means he can lineup anywhere on the line from the center to the outside shoulder of the guards. 

       The Clemson DT stands at 6'3 and can display power, however his skillset is based more on strength and speed more than moves. His length can tend to limit him if he doesn't get his hands inside early. The jump from college to the pros will most likely take a hit to how he plays as the linemen will be a lot bigger and stronger. With time he will adjust, but I would not expect big numbers for his rookie year. This year should be about getting better and adjusted. This goes for a lot of the players on the Dolphins, who are likely to struggle. 

         Wilkins can easily be the best player out of his Clemson counterparts if he reaches his full potential. Wilkins has a a drive to get to the ball and for being 315, he can move. Once he gets through to the line he has a very smart with his movements and doesn't over commit to one player. The issue is when he doesn't get through he can tend to get bogged down into the pile. He excels in running plays more than passing, which is self-explanatory as I described his moves still need to be polished. He won't need those to start off as a pass rusher, which helps take pressure off him. 

          Wilkins looks to serve as an anchor and building block for a Miami defense that is starting off fresh with a new Head Coach in Brain Flores from New England. I expect Wilkins will be a solid piece in their rotation as they build their defense.