Versatility is vital on the Philadelphia Eagles defensive line. Almost every Eagles lineman has experience at two positions, which remains true for third-round draft pick Milton Williams. Williams played defensive tackle during the 2020 season for Louisiana Tech but originally played defensive end for the previous two seasons. Over his first 15 games, Milton recorded six sacks and nine tackles for loss on the outside. Yesterday he spoke with NBC Sports about his training leading up to the NFL Draft.

When he moved inside under LA Tech’s new defensive coordinator David Blackwell, Williams had 4.5 sacks and ten tackles for loss in just 12 games. Some players would be upset about switching from a position they were dominant at, but not Milton Williams.

“I feel like it just gave me an opportunity to learn, to learn another position on the defensive line and get more versatility in my game. I feel like that’s one of my best traits as a defensive lineman, being somebody you can play at almost any position on the defensive line and be protective. This past year just playing inside and getting used to seeing block combinations and things like that, I think it helped me a lot.”

The strong defensive tackle has drawn parallels to Aaron Donald with his dominant hand fighting and massive frame. During his combine drills, Williams recorded 34 reps on the 225 bench press and a ridiculous 4.33 shuttle time.

“That was one of the reasons I decided to come out this year, because I knew I was going to be one of the most athletic defensive tackles in the draft class.”

Milton Williams will have a significant opportunity to grow this upcoming season, likely getting heavy snaps following the departure of Malik Jackson. The Eagles made it a point to attack the defensive line during the 2021 Draft, selecting four linemen with their nine draft picks.

Mandatory Credit: Tom Morris LATechSporrtsPix