If both stay healthy, the Patriots could have one of the most dangerous defensive tackle combinations in the NFL. Williams said that him and Barmore talk about leading the unit and hope to act in a way that makes teammates follow. That’s why they compete with each other every day.

The Patriots gave defensive tackle Milton Williams a huge contract in free agency, but that didn't stop him from catching an earful from head coach Mike Vrabel at a voluntary workout this spring.

He wants me to go fast and empty the tank every rep,” Williams said. “I like that. ... Calling me out is going to help the other guys."