New England went above and beyond to add Milton Williams, one of the better players available on the open market. The Patriots were in a bidding war with multiple other teams for Williams’ services, and they ultimately won the sweepstakes by giving the talented defensive tackle the richest contract in franchise history in terms of annual value.

Did New England overpay for Williams? Perhaps. But former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum still thought the pact represented the best move of free agency so far.

“While $26 million per year for Williams is extremely high, it’s rare to get someone so young (26 next month) with outstanding interior pass rush ability,” Tannenbaum wrote for ESPN. “His production has been modest (11.5 sacks in 67 games), but look for his game to reach the next level in Mike Vrabel’s system with the Patriots. He will become a frontline staple for years to come.”

Vrabel won’t be the only New England coach who figures to get the most out of Williams in Foxboro, Mass. New defensive coordinator Terrell Williams made a name for himself in the league via his large body of work as a defensive line coach. Furthermore, Milton Williams should benefit from a revamped Patriots defense that isn’t expected to have many — if any — holes.

All things considered, the blockbuster signing could prove to be a very fruitful partnership for both sides.