DT Christian Wilkins Drafted By Dolphins In 1st Round

NASHVILLE, TN — The Miami Dolphins chose defensive tackle Christian Wilkins of Clemson University as the team's first pick in the NFL draft Thursday.

The Dolphins had the 13th pick overall in the first round on the first day of the draft in Nashville. Wilkins famously gave a chest bump to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as he was called to the stage to accept his Dolphins jersey.

"Not only is Wilkins a star defensive lineman for the Tigers, but he was also the first scholarship Clemson football player to earn a degree in just two and a half years," said the NFL. "His work in the classroom, in the community and on the field earned him the prestigious William V. Campbell Trophy after his senior season."

In the team's 2016 national championship season, Wilkins was a third-team Associated Press All-American and second-teams All-ACC selection, starting all 15 games and compiling 56 stops, 13 for loss, and 3.5 sacks, the NFL said.

"He also set a school record for defensive linemen with 10 pass breakups," the NFL explained. "Wilkins was a permanent team captain in 2017, starting all 14 games, making 53 tackles (8.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks) playing primarily inside after spending time at defensive end in previous seasons."

Wilkins had to overcome personal tragedy with the death of his grandfather in January 2011 during a police raid on his grandfather's apartment. Police were looking for his grandfather's stepson and two friends when a gun accidentally discharged. Wilkins was not in the apartment at the time.

But he called his grandfather the most influential person in his life and sought to wear number 42 in college to honor his grandfather's birth year.

"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity," Wilikins told ABC after his selection.

He was one of three Clemson players selected in the first round. "I'm just excited that we can be ambassadors of the game," he said, playfully suggesting that he might be able to also help out on offense. "Whoever I need to talk to: I'm the most versatile man in this draft. Let me play a little running back, quarterback."

The Dolphins, who went 7-9 last season, are expected to benefit from Wilkins' quick hands, flexibility and his ability to knock down passes. He is also considered to be a player with great off-field character who will be an asset in the locker room.

The Campbell Trophy, which was awarded to Wilkins, is given by the National Football Foundation to the college football player who embodies academics, community service and on-field performance. It is sometimes referred to as the "Academic Heisman."