Malik Willis: A Risky Bet in a Limited Quarterback Market
As the 2026 NFL offseason heats up, all eyes are on Green Bay Packers backup quarterback Malik Willis. With limited quarterback options available in the draft and free agency, Willis's market value is reportedly on the rise, potentially reaching a hefty $30 million per year when he hits free agency on March 11.
But is this price tag justified?
The comparison to Seattle Seahawks QB Sam Darnold is tempting. Darnold, once considered a bust with the New York Jets, found redemption with the Seahawks, leading them to a Super Bowl victory after signing a lucrative deal. Teams eyeing Willis might hope for a similar turnaround.
However, Willis's journey has been rocky. His time with the Tennessee Titans was marked by limited opportunities-just three starts in two seasons before being traded to Green Bay. Yet, in his 11 appearances with the Packers, Willis showed glimpses of potential, completing 78.7% of his passes for 972 yards and six touchdowns, alongside 261 rushing yards and three scores on the ground.
The Packers and Seahawks are storied franchises, each with multiple Lombardi Trophies. But Willis may not land with a team of similar caliber.
Potential suitors like the Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals face their own challenges. Miami finished 7-10 last season, while Arizona struggled at 3-14, and both teams are under new head coaches-Jeff Hafley in Miami and Mike LaFleur in Arizona.
The Dolphins and Cardinals are also contemplating major quarterback changes. Miami might move on from Tua Tagovailoa, and Arizona could part ways with Kyler Murray. Both scenarios come with significant financial implications, with dead cap hits of $67.4 million and $47.5 million, respectively.
Given these circumstances, why would these teams invest heavily in Willis, especially with a promising 2027 draft class featuring talents like Arch Manning and Dante Moore on the horizon?
While Willis's potential is undeniable, teams should be cautious. Investing big in a quarterback with a limited track record could be risky. The key is finding the balance between recognizing his upside and not overpaying based on market scarcity alone.