Loaded with the most cap space to spend and plenty of roster improvements needed, the Patriots were bound to make some big-time moves in free agency, and perhaps the boldest of all was signing defensive tackle Milton Williams to the richest contract in franchise history. It was quite a show of confidence from the new regime, especially since they outbid the Panthers, with whom Williams had neared an agreement until they made a bigger offer.
It was a signing that prompted mixed reviews, despite Williams being considered desirable after his impressive 2024 season with the Eagles, which was capped off with a standout performance in the Super Bowl.
Due to the amount of money they were now on the books for and some concerns about his limited snaps in Philadelphia, there were doubters that signing him was the right move, even if he filled an immediate void on the defensive line.
But through just one game, Williams has already proven the naysayers wrong with one of the best defensive performances of the day against the Raiders in the season opener.
Milton Williams' debut with the Patriots proves he was the right signing, and a regretful walk for the Eagles
Although the defense was a part of the issue in their effort against Geno Smith and the Raiders' offense, it was mostly the secondary that was problematic, allowing six completions of over 20+ yards on the day.
The defensive line, however, was much more stout, only allowing first-round running back Ashton Jeanty to total 55 yards on the ground throughout the game. Part of that was due to Williams' performance, which also made for a tougher day for Smith.
Williams recorded a team-high of seven total pressures, two quarterback hits, four combined tackles with one for a loss, two run stuffs, and a 23.3% pass rush win rate on a career-high 49 snaps, according to PFF.
DT Milton Williams had a really strong #Patriots debut on Sunday. Four total pressures, two QB hits and showed up in the run game.
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) September 9, 2025
Williams used his patented bull rush, rip move, and worked well with others on stunts to apply pressure. pic.twitter.com/q1Y86Efjoj
This instantly became one of the best performances of his career thus far, and the hope is that he will continue to build upon it to help the defense become the dominant unit Vrabel and Co. are trying to build.
The group certainly showed signs of that against the Raiders, especially with the impressive showing by Harold Landry III, who led the league in sacks on Sunday. Williams wasn't too far behind in his effort, and they could easily become the best free agent signings the Patriots made this offseason if that continues.