It looked like the Patriots were going to lose Milton Williams in free agency until they made him a historic offer.
Williams reported was set to agree to terms with the Carolina Panthers. However, New England reportedly came in with a four-year, $104 million offer that includes $65 million guaranteed. The deal made the former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle the highest-paid player in Patriots history in terms of average annual value; yes, even more than Tom Brady.
The 25-year-old offered insight to the free-agent frenzy over him at an introductory news conference Thursday.
“It was a fast process,” Williams told reporters, per a team-provided video. “My agent was telling me teams were interested once a number got to a certain point. A lot of teams dropped out, and the Patriots were the ones who wanted me the most. I made it a priority to come here. They made me a priority, and they value what I bring to the table as far as being a versatile player on the D-line and a leader, hard worker. They believed in me so trying to give back to them as much as I can.”
It sounded like the Patriots sweetened their offer to Williams and that made the difference.
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Head coach Mike Vrabel revealed in Thursday’s news conference that the coaching staff planned on playing Williams more than he did with the Eagles, which was less than 50% of snaps. The Super Bowl LIX champion accepted the challenge and was ready to become the difference-maker New England hopes he can be.