Christian Wilkins record setting tackles go unnoticed in the NFL

Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) lets out a yell as he leaves the field after a 21-19 victory over the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Sept. 25, 2022.
Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) lets out a yell as he leaves the field after a 21-19 victory over the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Sept. 25, 2022. /
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The NFL is a fickle place and had, say Aaron Donald did what Christian Wilkins did, the media would be all over it. Instead, the Miami Dolphins’ defensive tackle isn’t talked about nearly enough.

To be fair, there have been far more important news in the world of football, and maybe Wilkins breaking the single-season record for tackles by a defensive tackle is simply a result of the timing.

Regardless, his accomplishment can’t summarily be waved off. Wilkins has 92 combined tackles this year and that breaks the previous record of 89, a mark Wilkins shared when he reached it in 2021.

Wilkins is making an incredible case for a new contract and he has become one of the most consistent and reliable defensive tackles in the NFL. Amazingly, he wasn’t voted into the Pro Bowl but he should receive plenty of All-Pro votes which are far more weighted.

Wilkins has been spectacular this season and continues to be a rare player that can fight off double-team protections.

Wilkins also accomplished the record with one game yet to play. Miami faces the Jets on Sunday with a potential playoff birth on the line. With all the drama surrounding the Dolphins’ quarterback situation, it’s nice to see some good news as well.

Wilkins, Zach Seiler, and Raekwon Davis have formed a dynamic trio on the defensive line. All three will enter free agency at the same time after next season. Miami picked up his 5th-year option earlier this year. It will be interesting to see if Miami extends him before that option year kicks in and whether or not they re-sign Seiler who has actually outplayed Davis on the Miami front.