Update: After it was reported that Milton Williams was signing with Carolina, the defensive tackle switched gears and signed with the Patriots.

Life changes fast in NFL free agency.

Around 1:30 p.m. on Monday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Milton Williams was finalizing a multi-year deal with the Carolina Panthers. That would’ve taken one of the Patriots top targets off the board.

However, 45 minutes later, the Patriots swooped in and singed the young defensive tackle to a massive new contract worth close to $26 million per season.

Williams, 25, was a disruptive force on the Philadelphia Eagles defensive line last year. He finished with five sacks, 10 quarterback hits, and 24 tackles.

A 2021 third-round pick, Williams is 6-foot-3 and weighs 290 pounds. He has 11.5 sacks over four seasons to go with 29 quarterback hits. For the Patriots, Williams was viewed as one of their top free-agent targets. The Athletic tabbed him as the No. 1 free agent available. ESPN ranked Williams No. 5 on their list.

The Patriots have added to their defense in free agency, signing outside linebacker Harold Landry, linebacker Robert Spillane, and cornerback Carlton Davis.

• BETTING: Check out our MA sports betting guide, where you can learn basic terminology, definitions and how to read odds for those interested in learning how to bet in Massachusetts.