Williams Drawing Interest as Free Agency Nears
Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams is emerging as a sought-after free agent, with teams like the Denver Broncos potentially in the mix for his services.
The Broncos may need to replace D.J. Jones, a run-stopping lineman set to hit free agency after playing his lowest snap count since 2018. If Jones departs, Williams could be a prime target for Denver’s defensive front.
Broncos, Vikings Eye Williams in Free Agency
ESPN recently simulated free agency, with team beat writers acting as general managers. Broncos insider Jeff Legwold projected that Denver could offer Williams a three-year, $73 million contract, including $40 million guaranteed.
“With two sacks and a forced fumble in the Eagles’ Super Bowl win, Williams—who turns 26 in April—made quite a case for himself as one of the top available interior disruptors,” Legwold wrote on March 5. “He would fit well in Vance Joseph’s aggressive defensive scheme, and this deal would give him another shot at free agency before he turns 30.”
However, in ESPN’s mock free agency, the Minnesota Vikings ultimately landed Williams with a four-year, $96 million contract, guaranteeing $75 million.
Williams’ Breakout Season Raises His Value
Williams, a 2021 third-round pick (No. 73 overall) by the Eagles, had a career-best season in 2024. He recorded 5.0 sacks during the regular season and added 3.0 sacks in the playoffs, playing a pivotal role in Philadelphia’s championship run. His snap count also reached a career-high, demonstrating his increased impact on the defense.
According to Spotrac, Williams is projected to sign a three-year, $53.3 million contract in free agency, which would make him the ninth-highest-paid defensive end in the NFL and rank 117th overall among all players.
Comparisons to Former Broncos DL Malik Jackson
Williams has drawn comparisons to Malik Jackson, a former Broncos defensive lineman who capitalized on a Super Bowl win to secure a lucrative deal in free agency.
“Jackson was a productive but lesser-known piece of a dominant defense before securing a massive contract with the Jaguars,” analysts David DeChant, Jourdan Rodrigue, and Vic Tafur noted. “Williams could follow a similar trajectory, potentially commanding a deal worth $20–25 million annually.”
Jackson’s career also serves as a warning—while he earned a Pro Bowl nod with Jacksonville in 2017, his overall tenure with the team fell short of expectations before he eventually joined the Eagles.
Williams’ Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Williams is a quick, powerful pass rusher who excels at disrupting plays. However, analysts believe he needs to improve his sack production and ability to hold up against the run.
In 2024, his 14.2% pressure rate ranked third among all interior defensive linemen with at least 100 pass-rush snaps. Still, his role has been limited—he has never played more than 50% of defensive snaps in a season due to Philadelphia’s deep defensive line rotation.
With teams like the Broncos and Vikings showing interest, Williams could soon be in line for a major payday, making him one of the most intriguing names in this year’s free agency market.
