Malik Willis Drawing Interest as Quarterback Carousel Heats Up - Dolphins in the Mix, Browns Not Biting
As the NFL offseason gets rolling, so does the quarterback conversation - and Malik Willis is right in the thick of it. The Green Bay Packers backup is set to hit free agency in March, and while he’s been flying under the radar behind Jordan Love, his name is now surfacing in some intriguing quarterback discussions.
Two teams have reportedly shown interest: the Cleveland Browns and the Miami Dolphins. But let’s be clear - one of those destinations is a non-starter.
Cleveland’s Cap Crunch Makes Willis a Long Shot
While speculation briefly linked Willis to the Browns, that idea was quickly shut down by those familiar with Cleveland’s financial situation. Deshaun Watson’s contract - a five-year, $230 million deal signed back in 2022 - looms large over the franchise.
Watson’s cap hit for the 2026 season? A staggering $80.7 million, the largest single-season cap charge in NFL history.
That number alone makes it nearly impossible for the Browns to entertain bringing in another quarterback with starting aspirations. As one team insider put it bluntly, “Ain’t happenin’.” For Cleveland, the focus remains on getting the most out of Watson, not adding another name to the mix - especially one like Willis, who’s still looking for a legitimate shot to prove himself.
Miami, on the Other Hand, Is a Different Story
Now, Miami? That’s a team to watch.
The Dolphins are expected to move on from Tua Tagovailoa after a rocky 2025 campaign in which the offense never quite found its rhythm. With a new head coach in Jeff Hafley taking over, the quarterback position is very much up in the air. Malik Willis has reportedly emerged as a potential target for Miami, and the fit makes some sense.
Willis, who was traded to Green Bay from Tennessee in August 2024, hasn’t had much of a chance to showcase his skills since arriving in the league. He’s been a backup to Jordan Love with the Packers and hasn’t seen significant game action. But his athletic upside and arm talent still intrigue teams - especially one like Miami, which is looking to reset under a new regime.
The Dolphins also have Quinn Ewers on the roster, but it’s far from certain that he’s the long-term answer. Bringing in Willis could give Miami another option to evaluate, potentially even as a bridge starter or developmental project with upside.
What’s Next for Willis?
For Malik Willis, this offseason represents a pivotal moment. He’s no longer the raw rookie trying to adjust to the speed of the pro game. He’s had time to develop, to learn behind the scenes, and now he’s poised to test the market with hopes of finding a team willing to give him a real shot.
Miami might be that team. Cleveland, due to its financial commitments, won’t be.
Quarterback movement always dominates the NFL offseason, and while Willis might not be the biggest name on the board, his next destination could quietly become one of the more intriguing storylines to watch as rosters begin to take shape for 2026.