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Smart summer additions like right guard Mekhi Becton and linebacker Zack Baun are clearly surpassing their present one-year contracts. On expiring contracts, Philly also boasts crucial starts such defensive tackle Milton Williams and pass rusher Josh Sweat. Roseman plans to spend large on defense in 2025, but keeping this group together could be difficult with so many mouths to feed.

Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report thinks a rebuilding team like the New England Patriots could aim at Philly’s dubious free agency scenario. Ballentine projected Williams, a 25-year-old emerging star, will land with the cap-rich Pats this March, in his AFC scouting notes for Week 14. This was his analysis of the possible blockbuster signing:

“The Patriots felt early in this season the loss of Christian Barmore. The Pats rank 26th in EPA allowed per rush; Jaquelin Roy is the only real defensive tackle with multiple sacks. Once diagnosed with blood clots that kept him out for most of the season, Barmore has now returned to the lineup. Though they still need additional skill to accompany him, his comeback should improve the whole team. Milton Williams will be among the top interior defenders available, and given his age—25—he should be a sought-after target.

The Patriots have a few things going for them as a possible free agency destination, even though they seem far away from contesting in the AFC. Former linebacker and Super Bowl winner Jerod Mayo, the first-year head coach, ought to be respected by younger defensive players like Williams. Drake Maye, a developing superstar at quarterback, also might help quickly turn the franchise’s fortunes around.

And here’s the worst: The highest in the NFL by far, New England is expected to have in projected cap space in 2025—$139.4 million. Given his next contract is within the Alim McNeil bracket of over $20 million annually, Williams might be priced out of Philadelphia. For the Patriots, however, that won’t be an issue since Williams may be swayed to depart with a multi-year deal at top of his market worth.

Roseman like building his teams across the trenches, hence maybe losing Williams causes problems. The Eagles might choose to spend money elsewhere in 2025 as Williams strikes it rich in free agency, with Jalen Carter rising to superstar level, Jordan Davis securing down the nose tackle job, and a good player in Moro Ojomo waiting in the wings.