Former Eagles Fan Favorite Cut by Patriots After Short Stint Due to OTA Injury
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots have released defensive tackle Milton Williams, a former Philadelphia Eagles standout, after a brief tenure marred by an injury sustained during Organized Team Activities (OTAs), sources confirmed to ESPN. The 26-year-old, who signed a lucrative four-year, $104 million contract with the Patriots in March 2025, was a fan favorite in Philadelphia for his pivotal role in their Super Bowl LIX victory.
A Promising Start Derailed
Williams, drafted by the Eagles in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Louisiana Tech, joined the Patriots as their top free-agent acquisition, expected to anchor a revamped defensive line under head coach Mike Vrabel. His signing was celebrated, with fans on X posting, “Milton Williams is gonna wreck shop in Foxborough! #PatsNation” (@PatsFanatic12). However, an ankle injury during OTAs in May 2025 sidelined him, limiting his participation and raising concerns about his readiness for the season.
Despite high expectations, Williams struggled to integrate into New England’s defensive scheme. In limited preseason action, he recorded just 3 tackles and no sacks, a stark contrast to his 2024 performance with the Eagles, where he notched 5 sacks and a career-high 12.5% pressure rate, per Next Gen Stats. His injury, combined with the emergence of younger linemen like Keion White and Christian Barmore’s return from health issues, prompted the Patriots to make the surprising cut.
Fan Reactions and Roster Implications
The move sparked mixed reactions on X. “Cutting Milton after one injury? Patriots front office is lost,” tweeted @EaglesPride4Life. Others, like @NFLGuru, argued, “Williams didn’t fit Vrabel’s system. Tough call, but Barmore and White are the future.” The decision leaves the Patriots leaning on Barmore, White, and newly signed Robert Spillane to bolster their defensive front.
Williams’ departure is a blow to a Patriots team that entered 2025 with high hopes after a 4-13 season. His standout Super Bowl LIX performance, including two sacks and a strip-sack of Patrick Mahomes, had made him a prized free agent. Patriots GM Eliot Wolf cited roster flexibility, stating, “We wish Milton the best, but we needed to prioritize health and scheme fit.”
A Beloved Eagle’s Next Chapter
In Philadelphia, Williams was beloved for his work ethic and versatility, earning praise from fans like @PhillyFaithful: “Milt gave us everything. He’ll bounce back.” With 11.5 career sacks and a reputation as a disruptive force, the 6-foot-3, 290-pound lineman is expected to draw interest in free agency. Teams like the Carolina Panthers, who nearly signed him in March, could re-enter the race.
As Williams recovers from his injury, his next chapter remains uncertain. His talent and Super Bowl pedigree keep fans hopeful for a comeback, with eyes on where the former Eagle will land next.
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