Loaded with the most cap space to spend and plenty of roster improvements needed, the Patriots were bound to make some big-time moves in free agency, and perhaps the boldest of all was signing defensive tackle Milton Williams to the richest contract in franchise history. It was quite a show of confidence from the new regime, especially since they outbid the Panthers, with whom Williams had neared an agreement until they made a bigger offer.
It was a signing that prompted mixed reviews, despite Williams being considered desirable after his impressive 2024 season with the Eagles, which was capped off with a standout performance in the Super Bowl.