Free-agent defensive tackle Milton Williams was reportedly close to reaching a deal with the Carolina Panthers, but according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, he has now agreed to terms with the New England Patriots. His new deal is expected to be for $26 million per season. The 25-year-old was a third-round pick out of Louisiana Tech in 2021 and posted a career-high five sacks in 2024. Overall, Williams is credited with 132 tackles (66 solo), 11.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 67 games. He will now anchor the New England defense led by new head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams.
The Carolina Panthers are finalizing a deal to sign former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams, according to ESPN. The 2021 third-round pick out of Louisiana Tech registered 24 tackles (11 solo), five sacks, one forced fumble, and one pass deflection in 17 games for Philly last season and was viewed as one of the top defensive linemen on the free-agent market. Carolina's defense ranked last in the NFL last season in total yards per game (404.5), so the organization is emphasizing upgrading that side of the ball ahead of the 2025 campaign.
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Louisiana Tech defensive lineman Milton Williams with the No. 73 overall pick in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft on Friday night. Williams is an incredible athlete at the defensive tackle spot and uses his hands really well to fight off offensive linemen. The problem with him is that he faced lesser competition in college and wasn't really a factor in the running game. Williams' Pro Day numbers jumped off the page -- 4.62-second 40-yard dash and 6.87-second three-cone drill. An already strong Eagles front seven just got even stronger. Williams can line up next to Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham to wreak havoc on opposing backfields. Williams also has some experience on the edge.
Milton Williams
• DT
•
Patriots
