The sad reality about being a winner in the NFL is that you have to deal with a ton of departures. The same players that lead you to glory end up getting targeted by the rest of the league and have to leave. Due to salary cap restrictions, it becomes increasingly more difficult to keep your team together and you have to constantly look for cheaper replacements for the players who sign elsewhere.
That is exactly what happened with Milton Williams in Philadelphia. In his contract season, the fourth-year defender raised his level of play and completely dominated the playoffs. His breakout performance came against the Chiefs in the Super Bowl as he put up two sacks, one QB hit, a forced fumble, and a recovery.
This earned him a massive payday when free agency opened on Monday. The New England Patriots signed Williams to a four-year, $104 million contract, making him the third-highest paid interior defensive lineman in the league.
Upon signing with the Patriots, Williams posted a message on Instagram directed at the organization, fans, and the city of Philadelphia. Thanking Jeffrey Lurie and Howie Roseman for giving him a chance, the 25-year-old defender voiced his appreciation for the fans as well.
“You will always remain near and dear to my heart”
Former Eagles DT Milton Williams says goodbye to Philly on IG after winning the Super Bowl and signing a huge contract in free agency with the New England Patriots. pic.twitter.com/vfoOa1C53J
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) March 12, 2025
Eagles News: Milton Williams Shares Message for Philly Fans
Saying that he is thankful that they were able to bring home the Lombardi Trophy, Williams said his "work here is done". He went on to add that the fans will always "remain near and dear to [his] heart".
"To the fans, you have made walking onto the field each and every game day, exciting and worth every moment! I gave it all I had for you, and I'm so thankful we brought the Lombardi home to Philly. "
Milton Williams
As difficult as it is to see valuable contributors that you helped develop, the Eagles need to find a replacement for Williams and the rest of the defenders who left in free agency. This is key to building sustainable winners, and a big challenge awaits GM Howie Roseman.
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