"One key to any win is stopping the run. And one player in particular has made a difference that makes everyone stand up and take notice. When Milton Williams is in the lineup, the Patriots' run defense is statistically and demonstrably better. Williams was a hero of the Philadelphia Eagles' win over the Chiefs in last year's Super Bowl. He's a big-game, big-time payer, and he's justified every dollar of the $104M contract with $51M guaranteed that the Patriots signed him to in free agency."
"Running yards given up per game by defenses is one of them. It's here that Williams presence, or lack thereof, has been a stark reminder of his value to Mike Vrabel's defense. Ian Hartitz pointed that out clearly in a recent social media post. Patriots run defense...With Milton Williams (14 games):-76.2 yards per game allowed-3.5 yards per carry-3 rush touchdownsWithout (5 games):-145.7 yards per game allowed-5 yards per carry-8 rush touchdowns pic.twitter.com/UyLRSLxxxm- Ian Hartitz (@Ihartitz) January 21, 2026"
Patriots travel to Mile High Stadium for the AFC Championship after an 8-0 road record this season. Stopping the run is central to success, and Milton Williams significantly improves the Patriots' run defense. Williams earned a $104M contract with $51M guaranteed after key plays in the Super Bowl with the Eagles. With Williams in 14 games, the Patriots allowed 76.2 rushing yards per game, 3.5 yards per carry, and three rushing touchdowns; without him in five games, they allowed 145.7 yards per game, five yards per carry, and eight rushing touchdowns. Williams also produced timely sacks in recent playoff wins.
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