As a Minnesota Vikings fan, you might be dreading Sunday’s Super Bowl matchup between two teams you’d rather not see on the big stage. While it’s a relief not to see a division rival crowned, many of us have just as much disdain for the Philadelphia Eagles as we do for the Detroit Lions. And if you’re not from Kansas or Missouri, you’re probably getting tired of seeing the Chiefs dominate national headlines.
But what if I told you that you don’t have to “hate-watch” this game? What if one of the biggest future stars for the 2025 Vikings is playing in the Super Bowl?
Instead of focusing on Patrick Mahomes’ magical plays or Nick Sirianni’s emotional outbursts, keep an eye on defensive tackle Milton Williams. The 25-year-old from Louisiana Tech had a breakout season in 2024 and will be highly sought after by teams this offseason. His potential and youth make him a prime candidate for a significant contract, and the Vikings could be the perfect team to bring him in.
While Williams isn’t a dominant run defender, he’s a strong pass-rush specialist. At 6’3″ and 290 lbs, he’s more effective on passing downs, as evidenced by his 500 snaps this season. While this doesn’t relieve Harrison Phillips’ duties as a nose tackle, Williams complements him well as a single-gap rusher, whereas Phillips excels in a two-gap system.
Williams could easily fill Jerry Tillery’s role from last season’s base defense, but in Minnesota, he could become an every-down player. If the Vikings re-sign Jonathan Bullard or bring in another run-stopping 3-technique, Williams could thrive as a 5-tech or 4i defensive end in Minnesota’s 3-4 system. In sub-packages, he could also take on a pass-rushing role similar to Jihad Ward’s, providing pressure from the interior.
Williams’ pass-rushing ability would be a perfect fit for Brian Flores’ defensive scheme. His speed would allow him to execute stunts and punish offensive linemen in one-on-one situations, something the Vikings can exploit based on the opponent’s pass protection. Williams was exceptional this season, registering 40 pressures and a 13.2% pressure rate, which ranked in the top 10 among interior defenders. In comparison, Ward managed 31 pressures in 395 pass-rush snaps (a 7.8% pressure rate), and Tillery only registered seven.
Milton Williams
On Sunday, Williams could play a key role in disrupting the Super Bowl. With Joe Thuney likely returning to left tackle for Kansas City, leaving Mike Caliendo at left guard, Williams will likely find himself facing Caliendo in one-on-one matchups. While Caliendo has performed decently, he remains a weak link on the Chiefs’ offensive line. Williams, especially with his ability to generate interior pressure, could be a game-changer for Philadelphia.
Against a quick-strike offense like Kansas City’s, immediate interior pressure is one of the few ways to disrupt Mahomes’ rhythm. So, if you’re rooting against the Chiefs, Williams is the player to watch on Sunday.
If the Vikings pursue Williams, expect a hefty contract, likely in the $100 million range. While that may seem steep for a pass-rush specialist, Williams is still young and could be on the brink of even greater success. Vikings fans have plenty of time to reflect on this season and speculate about next year, and with no strong rooting interest this Super Bowl Sunday, focus on a player who could make a real impact for Minnesota. Even if Williams doesn’t land in Minnesota, it’ll be interesting to remember the time when we thought he might.
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