Cardinals Eye Milton Williams for Defensive Boost as Free Agency Opens

PHOENIX, Ariz. — As the Arizona Cardinals look to bolster their defensive line amid ongoing free agency, they have reportedly set their sights on Milton Williams, an interior defensive lineman who could significantly enhance their pass rush. The team recently secured edge rusher Victor Dimukeje with a two-year contract but remains eager to improve their defensive capabilities after a disappointing 2024 season.

Last season, Williams was part of the Philadelphia Eagles defense that clinched a Super Bowl title, posting an impressive performance with two sacks against the Kansas City Chiefs. His ability to apply pressure within the interior lines may provide the Cardinals with the edge they are seeking. Pro Football Focus (PFF) noted that Williams led all NFL interior defenders with a 91.7 pass-rushing grade last year, positioning him as a top target in this year’s free-agent market.

Despite criticism regarding his run defense skills, Williams’s pass-rushing capabilities make him an intriguing option for Arizona. Zoltán Buday of PFF highlighted that the Cardinals generated pressure on only 30.9% of pass plays in 2024, ranking them 27th in the league, while their interior defenders collectively earned a lowly 54.3 pass-rushing grade, good for 28th. Buday remarked, “While Milton Williams might not be a complete interior defender due to some struggles against the run, he more than makes up for it with his pass-rushing production.”

Williams’s connection with Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon adds another layer of possibility to this potential acquisition. Gannon served as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator during Williams’s time in Philadelphia and is familiar with his skill set. A source close to the negotiations claimed that Williams could command upwards of $20 million per year based on his playoff success and overall performance in 2024.

The Cardinals, seeking to revitalize their defensive strategy, might also consider the draft to address roster gaps. Nonetheless, Williams presents a strategically sound option that could bolster their chances as they move into the offseason.

“It’s almost a no-brainer for the Cardinals to seriously pursue Williams,” Buday added. “While they might be banking on potential for the 25-year-old DT, he’d be an immediate upgrade over their in-house options.”

With the free agency period underway, Arizona could make strides in reshaping their defensive lineup. The outcome of this pursuit, along with potential draft selections, will be crucial in redefining the Cardinals’ prospects for the upcoming season.