NFL Writer: Patriots Newcomer A ‘Near Shoo-In’ For First Pro Bowl

NFL.com senior news writer Kevin Patra revealed his picks for “one potential first-time Pro Bowler” from every NFL team on Thursday.

His choice from the New England Patriots is defensive tackle Milton Williams.

The Louisiana Tech product spent the first four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2021 to 2024 before signing a four-year, $104 million contract with the Patriots in March. Williams helped the Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, finishing the contest with four tackles, 2.0 sacks, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery in just 25 defensive snaps.

“What the voters whiffed on, free agency made up for,” Patra wrote. “In a part-time role in Philly, Williams generated 35 QB pressures and five sacks in 2024. His pressure rate of 12.9% led all defensive tackles last season (among those with a minimum of 200 pass rushes). Williams’ get-off and penetrating ability allow him to wreck plays in the backfield. The only question entering free agency was whether or not he’d be able to maintain the same playmaking ability while logging double the snaps — a la Chris Jones’ 12% pressure rate on 507 pass rushes. If Williams comes even close to keeping up the efficiency with an increased workload, he’s a near shoo-in for a Pro Bowl.”

The 26-year-old’s 24 tackles during the 2024 regular season were a career low, but he made his takedowns count. Williams also recorded career highs with his 10 quarterback hits and 5.0 sacks.

The former third-round pick is projected to start along the Patriots defensive line in 2025 alongside the likes of fifth-year pro Christian Barmore and fellow offseason signing Khyiris Tonga among others.