Malik Willis Is About to Get Paid - and Maybe Get His Shot as an NFL Starter
Malik Willis has gone from being a forgotten third-stringer in Tennessee to arguably the best backup quarterback in the NFL. And now, with free agency looming, he’s about to cash in - and possibly land a starting job.
The Green Bay Packers would love to keep him. That much is clear.
But with Willis set to hit the open market when the new league year begins on March 11, they may not be able to match what other teams are willing to offer. He’s earned that kind of attention - and that kind of contract - after two impressive seasons behind Jordan Love in Matt LaFleur’s system.
Let’s be clear: Willis didn’t just hold a clipboard. He made the most of every snap he got in Green Bay, showing poise, athleticism, and a clear command of the offense.
In LaFleur’s quarterback-friendly scheme, Willis looked like a legitimate NFL starter. The big question now is whether that success can translate elsewhere.
There’s some history here that gives teams pause. Matt Flynn once looked like the next big thing in Green Bay, only to fizzle out after leaving the Packers' system.
But Willis feels like a different case. His tools are undeniable - the arm strength, the legs, the playmaking instincts - and he’s shown real growth since arriving in Green Bay.
Two Teams to Watch: Miami and Arizona
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, two teams are already circling: the Miami Dolphins and the Arizona Cardinals.
Both franchises have complicated quarterback situations. Miami is tied to Tua Tagovailoa, and Arizona is still navigating Kyler Murray’s massive contract. But if either team can find a way to move on from their current starter - or simply wants a talented, high-upside backup who can push the competition - Willis makes a lot of sense.
There are also some notable connections. Miami’s new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, and head coach Jeff Hafley both came from Green Bay and have firsthand knowledge of Willis’ development. In Arizona, new head coach Mike LaFleur can tap into his brother Matt’s insights on what makes Willis tick.
It’s not a done deal - and there are financial hurdles to clear - but both teams are worth keeping an eye on as we head toward free agency.
A Rough Start in Tennessee, a Rebirth in Green Bay
Willis’ NFL journey didn’t start the way he hoped. Drafted 86th overall by the Titans in 2022, he came in with sky-high expectations thanks to his athleticism and raw upside.
But he never found his footing in Tennessee. In two seasons, he started just three games, failed to throw a touchdown, and was eventually buried on the depth chart behind Will Levis and Mason Rudolph.
The Titans moved on quickly, drafting Levis in the second round the very next year. That left Willis as QB3 - a developmental project with no clear path forward.
Then came the trade to Green Bay. For a seventh-round pick, the Packers took a low-risk flyer on a quarterback with untapped potential. It didn’t take long for that move to pay off.
When Opportunity Knocked, Willis Answered
In Week 1 of the 2024 season, Jordan Love went down late in Green Bay’s opener in Brazil against the Eagles. Willis stepped in - and didn’t flinch. He started the next two games, went 2-0, and even helped take down his former team, the Titans.
Fast forward to the end of the 2025 season. Love suffered a concussion, and once again, Willis was called on. And once again, he delivered.
In limited action last season, Willis completed 30 of 35 passes for 422 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. On the ground, he added 123 rushing yards and two more scores on 22 carries. That’s not just good - that’s starter-level production from a guy who wasn’t even supposed to see the field.
He showed off the full package: quick decision-making, touch on his throws, and the kind of athleticism that makes defensive coordinators lose sleep.
What’s Next?
Willis is heading into free agency with momentum, upside, and - perhaps most importantly - real tape that proves he can play at this level. He’s not just a project anymore. He’s a quarterback who’s developed, matured, and earned another shot.
Whether it’s in Miami, Arizona, or somewhere else, Malik Willis is going to get a chance. And based on what he’s shown in Green Bay, he just might make the most of it.
One thing’s for sure: He deserves to get paid. And he deserves a real opportunity to compete for a starting job.