Patriots coach recalls ‘blacking out’ in excitement when the team signed Milton Williams
TOI World Desk | TOI Global Desk | Sep 26, 2025, 22:12 IST
Patriots coach recalls ‘blacking out’ in excitement when the team signed Milton Williams
( Image credit : AP )
Highlight of the story: Patriots defensive line coach Clint McMillan described his overwhelming excitement when New England secured defensive tackle Milton Williams in free agency after he was nearly set to sign with the Carolina Panthers. Williams has already proven his value with dominant play through the first three games of the season.
TL;DR
Patriots defensive line coach Clint McMillan said he “blacked out” from excitement when defensive tackle Milton Williams unexpectedly signed with New England in free agency after nearly finalising a deal with the Carolina Panthers. Williams has quickly become a standout performer for the Patriots, validating his four-year, $104 million contract.
A Stunning Free Agency Twist
Free agency in the NFL is often unpredictable, but few signings have caused as much immediate excitement within the New England Patriots organization as the acquisition of Milton Williams. Defensive line coach Clint McMillan admitted Thursday that he “probably blacked out for a little bit” when news broke that the former Philadelphia Eagles tackle was heading to New England instead of the Carolina Panthers.
From Panthers Deal to Patriots Commitment
Williams, 25, was initially reported in March to be closing in on a lucrative deal with the Panthers. In a sudden twist, the Patriots stepped in with an improved offer, and within 45 minutes, reports confirmed that Williams had signed a four-year, $104 million contract to anchor New England’s defensive line.
“I do. I probably blacked out for a little bit once that happened,” McMillan told reporters. “It was exciting. You love to get a player of that caliber. We’ve done a great job making sure we get the right people in, and Milton is a perfect example.”
Early Impact on the Patriots Defence
As of yet, Williams has met all expectations. Over a span of three games, he cited two sacks, three quarterback hits, and a team-high five tackles for loss. The production extends beyond statistics: Williams participated in more than 72 percent of defensive plays, and his resume depicts him as a consistent, full-time presence.
Beyond the Stars: A Strong Work Ethic
McMillan stressed that Williams' value lies beyond his on-field contributions. “Obviously, the ability is great, but the type of worker he is, the time he spends — that’s the thing that I’m most excited about. He’s dove headfirst into the way we do things here,” McMillan said. “It’s been beneficial for both of us.”
Confronting the Team He Nearly Joined
Sunday's game against the Panthers adds an ironic twist, as Williams had been mere minutes from joining the Panthers before opting for New England. For McMillan and the Patriots, that choice has already been pivotal to the team's revitalized defense.
Williams's Path to NFL Greatness
Williams, who was a 2021 third-round pick of the Eagles, has gradually built himself into one of the league's most disruptive interior linemen. His athletic ability and discipline have established him as a stalwart for the Patriots' front, which has labored with depth issues over the past several years.
Looking Ahead
With New England looking to recover from its 1-2 beginning, Williams's performance will not only be important in the upcoming matchup with Carolina but in assisting the team in creating its eventual defensive identity.
Patriots defensive line coach Clint McMillan said he “blacked out” from excitement when defensive tackle Milton Williams unexpectedly signed with New England in free agency after nearly finalising a deal with the Carolina Panthers. Williams has quickly become a standout performer for the Patriots, validating his four-year, $104 million contract.
A Stunning Free Agency Twist
Free agency in the NFL is often unpredictable, but few signings have caused as much immediate excitement within the New England Patriots organization as the acquisition of Milton Williams. Defensive line coach Clint McMillan admitted Thursday that he “probably blacked out for a little bit” when news broke that the former Philadelphia Eagles tackle was heading to New England instead of the Carolina Panthers.
From Panthers Deal to Patriots Commitment
Williams, 25, was initially reported in March to be closing in on a lucrative deal with the Panthers. In a sudden twist, the Patriots stepped in with an improved offer, and within 45 minutes, reports confirmed that Williams had signed a four-year, $104 million contract to anchor New England’s defensive line.
“I do. I probably blacked out for a little bit once that happened,” McMillan told reporters. “It was exciting. You love to get a player of that caliber. We’ve done a great job making sure we get the right people in, and Milton is a perfect example.”
Early Impact on the Patriots Defence
As of yet, Williams has met all expectations. Over a span of three games, he cited two sacks, three quarterback hits, and a team-high five tackles for loss. The production extends beyond statistics: Williams participated in more than 72 percent of defensive plays, and his resume depicts him as a consistent, full-time presence.
Beyond the Stars: A Strong Work Ethic
McMillan stressed that Williams' value lies beyond his on-field contributions. “Obviously, the ability is great, but the type of worker he is, the time he spends — that’s the thing that I’m most excited about. He’s dove headfirst into the way we do things here,” McMillan said. “It’s been beneficial for both of us.”
Confronting the Team He Nearly Joined
Sunday's game against the Panthers adds an ironic twist, as Williams had been mere minutes from joining the Panthers before opting for New England. For McMillan and the Patriots, that choice has already been pivotal to the team's revitalized defense.
Williams's Path to NFL Greatness
Williams, who was a 2021 third-round pick of the Eagles, has gradually built himself into one of the league's most disruptive interior linemen. His athletic ability and discipline have established him as a stalwart for the Patriots' front, which has labored with depth issues over the past several years.
Looking Ahead
With New England looking to recover from its 1-2 beginning, Williams's performance will not only be important in the upcoming matchup with Carolina but in assisting the team in creating its eventual defensive identity.