Milton Williams, a name not often celebrated as loudly as his teammates Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, is carving out a significant niche in the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive line. Despite being a third-round pick in 2021, Williams has proven his worth, even as Carter and Davis, first-round picks from the last two drafts, have been spotlighted as starters.
Williams' role as a rotational piece might lead some to overlook his contributions, yet his impact on the field cannot be understated. Known for doing the "dirty work," Williams is consistently in the trenches making pivotal plays. This adaptability and work ethic have not gone unnoticed by Eagles’ defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, who is now coaching Williams after a year earlier attempted to bring him to the Miami Dolphins.
"He's a guy that from afar I've liked that the Eagles have had. In fact, I tried to get us to trade for him last year in Miami, but [Eagles General Manager] Howie [Roseman] wouldn't do it," Fangio revealed. "But I like Milt. Milt is a pro. He's solid, both versus the run and in pass rush."
With Fangio taking the reins of the Eagles' defense, Williams has embraced the variety in his assignments, finding opportunities both as a defensive tackle and on the edge. Fangio, known for blending personnel and strategies, seems to have found a versatile asset in Williams. “It's a lot of variety. He's gonna move us around a lot. I feel like with my quickness and speed, it's really helpful for me to give our offensive line different looks. A lot of variety, and it's going to be good for us,” Williams remarked.
This season carries added significance for Williams, who is in the final year of his rookie contract. With the retirement of Fletcher Cox, Williams is expected to see increased snaps, thus elevating his impact within the team's defense. As the No. 3 defensive tackle, Williams will rotate with Carter and Davis, and also spell the likes of Josh Sweat, Bryce Huff, Nolan Smith, and Brandon Graham on the edge.
Reflecting on his readiness for the challenge, Williams commented, "Gotta be in shape. I feel like I'm in pretty good shape right now. But as we practice, it's going to be better and better. Whenever they call my name, I want to make sure I'm ready for the opportunity."
Fangio’s tactical acumen and Williams' fervent drive are poised to create a formidable combination on the field. The loss of veteran Cox undoubtedly places larger responsibilities on Williams, yet his ability to adapt and thrive in Fangio’s scheme is promising. Williams is poised and prepared for the opportunity, embodying the next man up mentality that is key to the Eagles' defensive success.
As the season progresses, Williams' role will be scrutinized, and his performance analyzed. Yet, in the quiet of the grind, away from the glaring spotlight that his teammates enjoy, Milton Williams stands ready to seize his moment. The defensive line of the Eagles features a blend of youthful energy and seasoned strategy, making each snap a testament to the collective effort of the players and the ingenuity of their coordinator.
Fangio's confidence in Williams' abilities paints a promising picture for the Eagles' defense. “He's solid, both versus the run and in pass rush,” Fangio praised. It’s this solidity that may very well prove to be the cornerstone around which the Eagles build their defensive fortifications this season.
With the stage set for what could be a breakout season, Milton Williams is prepared to embrace his role, whether it's in the trenches or out on the edge, contributing significantly to the Eagles’ pursuit of dominance on the defensive end.