PATRIOTS FREE AGENTS: Daniel Ekuale
NOTABLE EXTERNAL FREE AGENTS: B.J. Hill (CIN, PFF FA Rank: 52nd), D.J. Jones (DEN, PFF FA Rank: 97th), Sebastian Joseph-Day (TEN), Milton Williams (PHI, PFF FA Rank: 32nd), Levi Onwuzurike (DET, PFF FA Rank: 40th)
POSITION ANALYSIS:
2025 Free Agency Preview: Interior Defensive Line
The New England Patriots enter the 2025 offseason with several pressing needs across the roster, perhaps none bigger than on the interior of the defensive line. Daniel Ekuale is set to hit the open market, while uncertainty remains about Christian Barmore's future after being diagnosed with blood clots and missing nearly all the 2024 season. Davon Godchaux was reportedly granted permission to seek a trade, leaving questions across the board about depth and scheme versatility in the trenches. Ekuale has provided solid rotational snaps and should be a candidate to return, but it's a good bet that the interior of the Patriots defensive line will look vastly different in 2025.
With an abundance of cap space, New England should turn to external options to remake the defensive front, perhaps with multiple signings. Here's a look at some of the most notable free-agent defensive linemen who could fit in Foxborough.
Notable External Free Agents
Milton Williams (PHI) – PFF FA Rank: 32nd
Williams, a former third-round pick, has steadily improved with the Eagles, flashing impressive athleticism and power. He was outstanding in his team's run to the Super Bowl championship, raising his free agency profile. Williams' ability to penetrate gaps and create disruption aligns well with what the Patriots seek in their interior linemen. While he isn't a traditional space-eater, his explosiveness would fit the kind of defense that Mike Vrabel put together with the Titans. Williams could be an ideal fit if New England wants a young, high-upside player to develop into a key contributor. Many reports from the NFL Scouting Combine projected the Patriots to pursue Williams.
Levi Onwuzurike (DET) – PFF FA Rank: 40th
Onwuzurike's career has been marred by injuries, but when healthy, he's displayed the ability to be a disruptive force. At 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds, he offers a blend of size and quickness that could allow him to play multiple roles in the Patriots' scheme, while his experience with Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams could give New England an inside track on signing him. Given his injury history, he might come at a discount, making him a potential value signing if New England wants to bet on his upside.
B.J. Hill (CIN) – PFF FA Rank: 52nd
Hill has been a consistent interior defender for the Bengals, providing stout run defense and occasional pass-rushing ability. His experience as a 3-4 defensive end or a 4-3 defensive tackle makes him an intriguing fit for the Patriots' flexible front. If New England wants a proven veteran who can stabilize the defensive line, Hill would be a strong addition without breaking the bank.
D.J. Jones (DEN) – PFF FA Rank: 97th
Jones is one of the best run-stuffing defensive tackles available in free agency. While he won't offer much in terms of pass rush, his ability to clog running lanes and command double teams would make him a valuable asset. The Patriots could see him as an ideal early-down anchor to solidify their run defense.
Sebastian Joseph-Day (TEN)
Joseph-Day is a veteran presence who has played key roles for multiple teams, including the Rams and Chargers. He brings experience and a high motor, making him a solid rotational piece if New England wants to add depth without committing significant resources. While he may not be a long-term solution, his ability to contribute in multiple fronts makes him a viable target.
Conclusion
The Patriots have several options to upgrade the defensive line, depending on their priorities. If they want an elite pass-rushing interior player, Williams is a strong fit. If run defense is the focus, Jones or Hill could make sense. Onwuzurike and Joseph-Day provide lower-cost alternatives with potential upside. A combination of two or three of these free agents would make sense given the uncertainty along the defensive line.
DISCLAIMER: The views and thoughts expressed in this article are those of the writer and don't necessarily reflect those of the organization. Read Full Disclaimer
