Patriots Land Defensive Tackle Milton Williams in Free Agency, Eagles Face Key Loss

Eagles Lose Key Defender Milton Williams to Patriots in Free Agency
The Philadelphia eagles are set to lose defensive tackle Milton Williams to the New England Patriots in free agency. According to NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo, Williams is finalizing a contract with New England that will reportedly pay him $26 million annually.
Williams, a third-round pick out of Louisiana Tech in the 2021 NFL Draft, had a breakout campaign in 2024. His dominant performance in Super Bowl LIX was instrumental in the Eagles' 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. The 26-year-old registered two sacks in the championship game, including a pivotal strip-sack of Patrick Mahomes in the fourth quarter.
Throughout the 2024 regular season, Williams recorded five sacks, 10 quarterback hits, 40 total pressures, and a forced fumble in 17 games. Pro Football Focus graded him at 70.1, ranking him 31st among defensive linemen last season.
Williams’ departure is one of several key losses for the Eagles in free agency. Edge rusher Josh Sweat is also testing the open market after recording 2.5 sacks in the Super Bowl.
However, the Eagles have made some moves to retain top talent. Last week, they re-signed All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun to a three-year deal and secured a historic contract extension for star running back Saquon Barkley.
While the Eagles are not expected to be major players in free agency, general manager Howie Roseman is known for making strategic moves. With Williams reportedly leaving, Philadelphia may seek reinforcements for the defensive line through free agency or the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
The NFL’s legal tampering period began at noon on Monday, allowing teams to negotiate with pending free agents. The new league year officially starts at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, when contracts agreed upon during the tampering window can be finalized.