Former Eagles Hero Named Top Signing of Offseason

Former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams was never really given the chance to be the focal point in the organization's defensive line.

When the former Lousiana Tech product was first drafted in the third round of the 2021 Draft, he was a role player behind Fletcher Cox and Javon Hargrave. Once Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis rolled around, Williams was seen as a key starter, but not "THE guy" in Philly's defense.

Now he gets the chance to finally be that top player.

Fresh off a dominant playoff run with the Eagles, Williams signed a $26 million per year deal with the New England Patriots making him the third highest defensive tackle in the league.

It was a deal that Williams earned through his four-year, 11.5 sack run with the Eagles.

And a lot of people outside the organization love the move.

Former general manager Mike Tannenbaum called Williams the top signing of the offseason for a sheer fact that the Patriots added the top available defensive player in the free agent class.

"The Patriots signing defensive tackle Milton Williams," Tannenbaum said. "While $26 million per year for Williams is extremely high, it's rare to get someone so young (26 next month) with outstanding interior pass rush ability. His production has been modest (11.5 sacks in 67 games), but look for his game to reach the next level in Mike Vrabel's system with the Patriots. He will become a frontline staple for years to come."

Can Williams produce like a top defensive tackle in the game? That remains to be seen. But it's clear that his contract shows how helpful he was during Philly's run to the Super Bowl, and how deep his potential could end up bring.