The New England Patriots have a long list of areas they must upgrade when NFL free agency begins this week, especially when it concerns the defense. The Patriots' defensive situation could use some bolstering after finishing with the eighth-worst Pro Football Focus grade, and several free-agent defenders have already been linked as potential targets — including defensive tackle Milton Williams.
NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe reported earlier this week that the Patriots are expected to be a "top suitor" after Williams won Super Bowl 59 with the Philadelphia Eagles last month. On Sunday, a local insider helped shine some light on what a potential contract with New England could look like.
Patriots Free Agency Rumors: DT Milton Williams Looking for Over $20 Million AAV
The Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan recently spoke with NFL sources who "believe Milton Williams will clear $20 million" per season on his new contract. Even though that's a lofty chunk of change, owner Robert Kraft could pay the Super Bowl winner even more than that amount.
"If the Patriots land (Williams), I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s $22 million annually — maybe more," Callahan wrote.
Two front-office executives I’ve spoken with believe Milton Williams will clear $20 million AAV.
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) March 9, 2025
If the #Patriots land him, I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s $22 million annually — maybe more. https://t.co/L9jAY9bQlz
Whether it's $20 million or $22 million, the Patriots have more than enough cap space to sign the veteran defender. New England will boast an NFL-leading $125.1 million in available funds once Monday's tampering window opens, according to OverTheCap, giving the team enough money to go head-to-head with the biggest offseason spenders.
Williams, 25, is one of this year's top available defensive tackles and is more than deserving of the attention he's garnered. The former Louisiana Tech product is coming off an impressive 2024 season that saw him record 11 solo tackles and a career-high 5.0 sacks while finishing among PFF's top-rated interior defenders when it comes to pass rushing (90.4, 2nd) and overall defense (70.1, 31st).
Now that Williams has Super Bowl experience under his belt, he's exactly the type of defensive leader who could thrive under head coach Mike Vrabel. Playoff-quality teams aren't made by pinching pennies, so the Patriots might as well swing for the fences by giving Williams the best possible offer — even if it's a bit of an overpay.
After all, his presence could be the difference between New England making the playoffs next season and missing the postseason for the fourth consecutive year.
The Patriots can start negotiating with Williams (and any other outside free agents) when the NFL's tampering window officially opens on Monday at noon ET.