Carolina Panthers stunned as Patriots secure Milton Williams

In a shocking twist, the Carolina Panthers’ hopes of adding star defensive tackle Milton Williams to their ranks have been dashed. After being in the driver’s seat for his signature, the Panthers were blindsided by the New England Patriots, who swooped in at the last moment to sign Williams to a lucrative $26 million per season deal.

After initial reports from Adam Schefter indicated that the Panthers were nearing an agreement with Williams, it seemed like a done deal. Carolina’s defense, under GM Dan Morgan’s watch, needed a player like Williams—someone who could disrupt the pocket and bolster their interior line next to Pro Bowler Derrick Brown. But with other teams lurking, the Patriots’ aggressive approach sealed the deal.

It was clear Williams was highly sought after, with the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings also involved. However, the Patriots’ superior offer, along with their ample cap space, made their pursuit irresistible. The Panthers, now outbid, were left in the dust.

Panthers projected to trade with Super Bowl team in latest NFL Mock Draft

Williams, coming off a Super Bowl-winning campaign with the Eagles, was arguably the best defensive lineman on the market. Losing him means the Panthers must regroup and explore other avenues—whether through trades or the deep draft class of defensive linemen.

Carolina Panthers secure game-changer Tre’von Moehrig for defense

Now, the Panthers must find a way to move forward without their top target. The search for defensive reinforcements continues.