The New England Patriots need to start winning up front again and they appear ready to build in the trenches this offseason.
New England needs offensive linemen to protect quarterback Drake Maye and build the defensive line with game-wreckers to pressure opposing offenses. Free agency marks a critical time for this mission and the Patriots reportedly have targets in mind with just days to go before the league tampering period starts.
NFL Media’s Cameron Wolfe linked the Patriots to defensive tackle Milton Williams, who just won Super Bowl LIX, after speculation arose during the NFL Scouting Combine. Wolfe expects to be “top suitors” for Williams’ services.
The 25-year-old tallied 24 tackles and five sacks with 12 quarterback pressures last season with the Philadelphia Eagles. He played a major role in Philadelphia’s dominant defensive effort in Super Bowl LIX with four tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery.
Williams is a candidate for a real breakout in 2025, especially given his snap rotation in Philadelphia came under impact defenders on the line in Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. He’d join Christian Barmore as capable impact players on the line as New England finds a new scheme under head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams.
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The NFL’s tampering period begins March 10 with free agency officially set to open March 12.