The Denver Broncos may have assembled one of the most formidable defenses in the NFL for 2024, with a well-rounded unit that boasts few weaknesses. However, one area where the Broncos could improve is their interior defensive line. Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine believes the team should consider pursuing Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams in free agency to help strengthen this area.
Ballentine pointed out the depth concerns along the defensive front for Denver, noting that while Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers are solid players, both are considered more as 5-technique hybrids rather than true interior linemen. D.J. Jones, a more traditional defensive tackle, is also aging at 29, further highlighting the need for a younger, stronger option. Ballentine suggested that adding Williams would greatly enhance the unit, especially given that Williams will only be 26 next season and is currently having a standout year with five sacks.
This isn’t the first time Ballentine has highlighted Williams as a key free-agent target. Just a month ago, he suggested that several teams, including the New England Patriots, should consider him as an option. Ballentine described Williams as one of the best interior defenders likely to be available in free agency, emphasizing his age (25) and impressive performance this season as reasons why he would be a highly sought-after target.
Williams is enjoying a breakout year with the Eagles, who boast the league’s top defense. In the 2024 season, Williams has played in all 15 games, starting in six of them. He has recorded 20 tackles, 5.0 sacks, 7 tackles for loss (TFL), 8 quarterback hits, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. These numbers already surpass his sack total from the first three seasons of his career, and he is doing so in the final year of his four-year, $5.11 million rookie contract.
The Eagles, however, may face challenges retaining Williams due to their financial situation. The team could also lose key players like linebacker Zack Baun and edge rusher Josh Sweat in free agency. Moreover, the Eagles are expected to focus their financial resources on securing a deal for 2023 first-round pick Jalen Carter, who plays the same position as Williams. When the Eagles eventually pay Carter—likely after the 2025 season—it’s anticipated that his deal could surpass the $158.75 million contract extension given to Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, making Carter the highest-paid interior defensive lineman in NFL history.
Given these financial considerations, Williams will likely be on the move, and his market value will significantly increase. For comparison, the average salary of the top 20 interior defensive linemen in the NFL in 2024 is $23.45 million. While Williams may not reach the same salary level as Carter, he could still secure a deal worth $15 million to $20 million per season. The Broncos, with their cap space and need for an upgrade in the interior, might offer a contract in the range of three years and $40 million to make a strong push for Williams’ services.
