Report: Eagles Super Bowl star ‘not part of the plan’ for 2025 and beyond

The Eagles appear poised to move on from one of their top defensive linemen, as defensive tackle Milton Williams is unlikely to return to Philadelphia in 2025. According to a report from NJ.com’s Cayden Steele, Williams has had no contact with the Eagles this offseason, and a source familiar with the situation indicated that he is “not part of the plan with the Georgia boys.”

Williams played a key role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning campaign, proving himself as a disruptive force in the trenches. However, Philadelphia’s front office seems content with replacing him through internal development and the upcoming draft. The team is expected to rely on third-year defensive tackle Moro Ojomo and invest in additional talent via the draft rather than commit significant cap space to Williams.

Eagles Prioritizing Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis

Philadelphia’s decision to move on from Williams appears to be financially motivated, as the organization is focused on securing long-term deals for defensive tackles Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. Both players, who were drafted out of Georgia, have established themselves as foundational pieces of the defensive line. Keeping them in Philadelphia is a top priority, which likely made it difficult to justify offering Williams the type of contract he is expected to command on the open market.

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Before the 2024 season, the Eagles reportedly extended a one-year, $8 million offer to Williams, but with free agency looming, his market value has skyrocketed. Steele’s report notes that Williams is expected to earn upwards of $20 million per year in free agency, making it nearly impossible for the Eagles to match competing offers.

Williams Drawing Interest from Multiple Teams

Given Williams’ production and ability to collapse the pocket, his availability in free agency has drawn significant interest from around the league. At least 10 teams, including the Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Seattle Seahawks, Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders, and Miami Dolphins, are reportedly in pursuit of the standout defensive tackle.

A former third-round pick in 2021, Williams has steadily developed into a top-tier interior pass rusher. Over four seasons, he has recorded 11.5 sacks and became a pivotal piece of Philadelphia’s defensive front. His performance in the Super Bowl, including a strip-sack on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, solidified his reputation as a game-changing defender.

Eagles Facing Additional Free Agency Departures

Williams is just one of several Eagles who could be on the move this offseason. The team has already made notable roster adjustments, re-signing linebacker Zack Baun to a three-year extension while parting ways with veteran cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry. With the NFL’s free agency legal tampering period set to begin, Philadelphia may also lose key contributors like edge rusher Josh Sweat and offensive guard Mekhi Becton.

As the Eagles continue their roster overhaul, Williams’ departure underscores the team’s commitment to financial flexibility and building around its young core. While his presence will be missed, Philadelphia appears confident in its plan to maintain a dominant defensive line for years to come.

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