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Jan 11, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots defensive end Milton Williams (97) celebrates a sack during the second quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images David Butler II-Imagn Images

Patriots’ HC Praises Tireless Milton Williams

Originally posted on New England Patriots on SI
By Mike D'Abate | Last updated Jan 30, 2026 5:00 PM ET

FOXBOROUGH, MA. — When the New England Patriots signed defensive tackle Milton Williams to a four-year, $104 million contract this offseason, Pats Nation’s level of excitement reached a fever pitch.

Williams, fresh off a Super Bowl victory while a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, possessed the on-field skill set capable of transforming their defense. Of course, the return of such enthusiasm to a fan base which [at the time] was reeling from its second-straight 4-13 finish, understandably came with a level of concern. After all, Williams’ new contract made him the highest-paid Patriots player ever, in terms of annual salary.

Fortunately for New England and its fans, Williams put to rest any potential storylines regarding “overpayment” by turning in a stellar performance on the field — both in the regular season and in the playoffs. He has also become one of the team’s most high-character players, setting an example for his teammates both on and off the field.

Nearly 10 months later, Williams is the toast of the town, from a Patriots standpoint. He has more than fulfilled his expectations of helping New England’s defense become one of the most aggressive and fearsome units in the NFL. Without the 26-year-old playing a notable role in their front seven, it is unlikely that the Patriots would be representing the AFC in Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8.

Perhaps more importantly, he has remained grounded in the face of success and newfound wealth — a point not lost on his head coach, Mike Vrabel. In fact, the HC of the NEP recently took a moment to reflect on Williams’ tenor and integrity — while giving significant credit to the Crowley, Texas native’s family.

‘Having done a lot of work with him coming out, we knew who he is as a person,” Vrabel said of evaluating Williams during free agency. “But, it’s really his family. I think his parents have been fantastic raising him and his sisters. When you have good bones, you can survive a lot. So, for a young player to come into a lot of money like that, it is important that they remain grounded, they remain hungry and want to continue to work. And I know that his parents and his family have a lot to do with that.”

Milton Williams Has Brought Strength and Stability to the Patriots Defense

In addition to being one of their most beloved players, Williams has also served as arguably their top defender since signing with the team this offseason. In 12 games this season, the 6-foot-3, 290-pound defender compiled 29 total tackles, 3.5 sacks, eight quarterback hits, eight tackles-for-loss, one pass breakup and eight run-stuffs. After suffering an ankle injury in Week 11, the Louisiana Tech product was placed on injured reserve. With Williams absent from the lineup, the Pats defense struggled to replicate his prowess until his return in Week 17.

Still, Williams’ impact on New England defense is felt far beyond the stat sheets. Rather than reading and reacting to run or pass — as they had in previous seasons — New England’s defensive front has become unlocked to get upfield, leading to more plays behind the line of scrimmage. Williams’ presence has been a key reason for that improvement. Last season, the Pats struggled to generate early-down pressure. This season, alongside fellow defensive tackle Christian Barmore, the Pats now provide one of the top defensive line tandems in the NFL. This has especially been true in the playoffs, where Williams has compiled five total tackles, four quarterback hits and two sacks.

While Williams deserves as much credit as he is given for his on-field performance, Vrabel knows that his determination and staunch work-ethic will keep him playing at a high level for the duration of his contract and beyond.

”There's a consistency there. He's a tireless worker. He worked hard. He was here in the offseason. I think that makes a difference. And then, obviously, just the disruption. I know everybody that rushes the passer, they strive for sacks, and certainly our ability to affect the quarterback goes well beyond the sack numbers … But he certainly has brought some disruption. And, I think he has improved some of his technique in the run game and things that we've talked about. He's consciously tried to work on that, and I appreciate that.”

This article first appeared on New England Patriots on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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