Malik Willis Could Be One of the Most Intriguing Quarterback Options on the 2026 Free Agent Market
As the 2025 NFL regular season winds down and teams begin to turn their eyes toward the offseason, one name that’s quietly building buzz in quarterback circles is Malik Willis. After stepping in for Jordan Love in Green Bay over the past two seasons and showing flashes of real potential, Willis may be ready for another shot at a starting job-and there are a few teams that could make a lot of sense.
The Kansas City Chiefs, Indianapolis Colts, and Pittsburgh Steelers are all expected to be in the market for quarterback help this offseason, and each presents a unique opportunity for a player like Willis-someone who’s shown he can manage a game, make plays with his legs, and bring a spark when called upon.
Let’s start with what we’ve seen from Willis recently. In Week 16 against Chicago, he entered the game after Love was evaluated for a concussion and nearly engineered a comeback.
Willis completed 9 of 11 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown, and added 44 yards on the ground. Yes, there was a costly fumble late that ended Green Bay’s hopes, but the overall performance was another reminder of what Willis can do when he’s in rhythm.
Unfortunately, he also picked up a shoulder injury in that game, so now the Packers are facing uncertainty at the quarterback position heading into the final stretch. But zoom out, and the bigger picture is clear: Willis has made the most of his limited opportunities.
In seven games and two starts last season, he completed over 74% of his passes for 550 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 138 yards. Most importantly?
The Packers went 2-0 in the games he started.
That kind of efficiency and dual-threat ability is going to catch the attention of teams looking for stability-or at least a high-upside bridge option-under center.
Kansas City Chiefs: A Bridge While Mahomes Recovers?
The Chiefs' quarterback situation is suddenly one to watch. Patrick Mahomes is recovering from a torn ACL, and while there's optimism about his return, it's no guarantee he’ll be ready for Week 1. That opens the door for Kansas City to bring in a short-term starter who can keep the offense afloat-and Willis could be that guy.
Andy Reid’s system has always been quarterback-friendly, especially for mobile passers who can extend plays and make quick decisions. Willis wouldn’t be expected to be Mahomes, but he could manage the offense, make plays with his legs, and keep the Chiefs competitive until their franchise QB is back at full strength.
Indianapolis Colts: A Reset Under Center?
Over in Indianapolis, the Colts are facing their own quarterback questions. Daniel Jones is recovering from a torn Achilles and is set to hit free agency in March. If the Colts decide to move on, they’ll need someone who can step in and compete right away.
Willis could be a smart, low-cost option with upside. He’s still just 26, has starting experience, and fits the mold of what Indianapolis has looked for in recent years-athletic quarterbacks who can make plays outside the pocket. The Colts have a solid offensive line and a strong run game, which would help ease the pressure on any new starter.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Preparing for Life After Rodgers
Then there’s Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers’ future beyond 2025 is still up in the air, and the Steelers may be looking to the future sooner rather than later. Enter Willis, who could be a logical fit in Arthur Smith’s offense-a system that leans on the run game and play-action, both of which suit Willis’ skill set.
If Rodgers returns for one more year, Willis could serve as a high-upside backup and potential successor. If Rodgers moves on, Pittsburgh would have a quarterback who’s already shown he can win games and manage an offense under pressure.
What’s Next for Willis?
Willis isn’t going to be the top name on the free-agent quarterback board, but he’s quietly become one of the most intriguing. He’s proven he can step in and deliver when needed, and he’s still young enough to develop into more than just a stopgap.
Whether it’s Kansas City, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, or another team entirely, Malik Willis has earned the right to compete for a starting job in 2026. Now it’s just a matter of who gives him that shot.