Miami Dolphins select Christian Wilkins: Grade, reaction for 2019 NFL Draft
The Miami Dolphins got stronger in the trenches with a defensive leader in Christian Wilkins being chosen with the 13th pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.
Asking Miami Dolphins fans who they wanted the team to select with the 13th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft would have been a divisive conversation. However, there weren’t going to be many fans suggesting Clemson defensive tackle Christian Wilkins as an option. Over the course of the draft process, Wilkins became the forgotten man in a strong class of interior defensive linemen.
After all, the 2019 NFL Draft class had top-heavy names like Ed Oliver and Quinnen Williams to steal headlines. Even Wilkins’ Clemson teammates, Dexter Lawrence and Clelin Ferrell, received more buzz, but that doesn’t mean that Wilkins is a slouch in any regard.
In fact, CBS Sports ranked Wilkins as their fourth best defensive lineman in the 2019 draft class. And his skill-set ideally fits the hybrid style the Fins are expected to run under the direction of new head coach Brian Flores.
Wilkins does a great job slipping pass blockers in the trenches. He understands how to get skinny and exploit gaps. While he isn’t a freak like Oliver or Williams, Wilkins has shown excellent athletic traits on film.
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At Clemson, he dropped into short zones and lined up on the edge making him a versatile option. The Draft Network spotlighted his versatility as one of his strengths:
"“Ideally suited to function as a three-technique in a 4-3 alignment with playmaking upside against the run and pass. Regular contributor on special teams in college. Has lined up over the center in college and situationally rushed from the edge.”"
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There was speculation that the Dolphins could take a quarterback they desperately need. However, they didn’t reach for one. Instead, they opted to take one of the best players on the board. Wilkins is an ideal three-technique and building block for the Fins.
Grade: A