While the New England Patriots’ primary offseason focus will likely be on improving their offense, they also have clear needs on defense.
The Patriots’ defensive performance has significantly declined in 2024, ranking 20th in both total yardage and points allowed.
Strengthening their defensive line could be a priority, and Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine has suggested Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams as a potential free-agent target for New England.
“[Christian Barmore’s] return should boost the entire defensive line unit, but they still need additional talent alongside him,” Ballentine wrote. “Milton Williams is one of the top interior defenders hitting the market, and at just 25 years old, he’s likely to draw significant interest.”
Williams has been a standout for the Eagles this season, recording 16 tackles, five sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery through 12 games.
A third-round pick out of Louisiana Tech in the 2021 NFL Draft, Williams made an immediate impact as a rookie, playing in every game and tallying 30 tackles and two sacks. He followed that up with 36 tackles and four sacks in his second year and contributed 42 tackles last season.
With the Patriots struggling to pressure opposing quarterbacks—managing just 27 sacks this season after trading away Matthew Judon and Josh Uche—a player like Williams could be a game-changer for their defensive front.
Thanks to their ample cap space, the Patriots could pursue Williams and still have resources to address other defensive needs.
