Boasting the league’s most cap space, with over $100 million to spend, the New England Patriots were always a strong bet to make a big splash once NFL free agency kicked off. Many expected the Patriots to spend money on both sides of the ball as they look to bounce back from what was just a three-win season in 2024.
Just hours into the NFL’s official free agency negotiation window, the Patriots have swung a blockbuster addition.
Related: Top 2025 NFL free agents: Ranking top 30 players in NFL free agency
New England Patriots make Milton Williams one of NFL’s highest-paid DTs
Not long after NFL free agency began, rumors began circulating that the Carolina Panthers were closing in on a contract agreement with Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams. Plans changed.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Williams is now signing with the New England Patriots instead. They’ve reportedly gotten him to agree to a four-year, $104 million contract, making him the NFL’s third-highest-paid defensive tackle.
Yet, they had to beat out several other teams who made a late push to sign him, including the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings. Now, Williams joins the Patriots instead, who finished with the NFL’s fewest sacks in 2024.
Related: NFL free agency predictions 2025: Projecting landing spots for 32 top NFL free agents
