As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season, their roster bears a striking resemblance to the squad that battled in Super Bowl LIX. Yet, beneath the surface of continuity, significant changes are afoot, with one departure casting a long shadow over the defensive line: Milton Williams, the former Eagles defensive tackle, is now suiting up for the New England Patriots.
Williams was a standout in the 2024 season, notching a career-high five sacks and earning a massive $104 million contract from the Patriots. Despite starting only seven games, his relentless play across all 17 contests—and a memorable performance in Super Bowl LIX—cemented his legacy in Philadelphia. But with his exit, the Eagles face a gaping hole in their defensive front. Enter 24-year-old Moro Ojomo, the rising star poised to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight.
Ojomo, who recorded 20 total tackles in a rotational role last season, is no stranger to making an impact with limited opportunities. His performance in 2024, though overshadowed by Williams’ breakout year, caught the eye of coaches and analysts alike. ESPN’s Ben Solak dubbed Ojomo the Eagles’ biggest X-factor for 2025—not just among players, but across coaches, quarterbacks, and rookies.
“Many next-guy-up options were available here,” Solak noted. “Edge rushers Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt must replace the lost snaps of Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham, while guard Tyler Steen must step into Mekhi Becton’s shoes. But I chose Ojomo, who has to replace the outgoing Milton Williams at defensive tackle, because Ojomo has the best chance to become a sudden star.”
Ojomo’s game shines brightest against the run, where his physicality and instincts disrupt opposing offenses. While his pass-rush production (9.3 percent pressure rate on 248 pass rushes) lagged behind Williams’ (12.9 percent on 271 rushes), Ojomo’s film tells a story of untapped potential. Unlike Williams, who converted pressures into five sacks, Ojomo failed to bring down the quarterback in 2024. Yet, the Eagles’ confidence in him is evident: their only addition to the defensive tackle depth chart was fourth-round rookie Ty Robinson, signaling that Ojomo will inherit Williams’ critical third-and-long snaps alongside star Jalen Carter.
Ojomo’s ascent isn’t just about filling a void—it’s about seizing a golden opportunity. With the Eagles banking on his ability to translate pressures into sacks at a league-average rate, the young defensive tackle could follow in Williams’ footsteps and become the next breakout star. His performance in 2024, though under the radar, showcased a player ready to dominate in an expanded role. If Ojomo can capitalize on his opportunities, particularly in pass-rushing situations, he could earn the same hype that propelled Williams to a nine-figure deal.
The Eagles’ defensive line has long been a breeding ground for talent, and Ojomo appears to be the latest gem unearthed by Philadelphia’s scouting department. As he steps into the role vacated by Williams, the 24-year-old is no longer a backup waiting in the wings. Instead, he’s a player on the cusp of stardom, ready to carve his own legacy and push his predecessor into the shadows.