Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

The Patriots have landed the biggest fish in the free agency pond signing defensive tackle Milton Williams to a four year, $104 million dollar contract. New England beat out the Panthers and Cardinals for his services. Williams, who has never played more than 50% of his team’s snaps is coming off of a Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles and a career high five sacks.

The 25 year old Williams was drafted by the Eagles out of Lousiana Tech in the third round of the 2021 draft. The 6’3 290 pound Williams terrorized opposing offensive lines playing next to Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis as part of a three man rotation in Vic Fangio’s defense.

Williams is the perfect in the Patriots attacking 40 front defense. He is tailor made to be a one gap penetrator. He can play the three technique or the 2i on the weakside. His versatility is a big reason why he was considered the top free agent on the market. He graded out as PFF’s top pass rusher with a 91.7 grade.

Williams will have to play more snaps now so there will be more pressure on him to produce but if you can pair him up with a healthy Christian Barmore, the two could form the nucleus to a front similar to what we saw in Philadelphis this past season.

The Texas native has 11.5 sacks in 67 career games. While his numbers may not “pop” persay, the Patriots are paying for future upside. They are banking on far more statitical output now that Williams will be a full time player. Provided he stay healthy, Williams should put up big numbers in the Patriots scheme.

Williams joins a revamped front seven that now features Harold Landry and Robert Spillane as well. New England also added cornerback Carlton Davis in a shopping spree that is reminiescent to what they did in 2021.