As the new league year approaches, the Green Bay Packers are poised to bid farewell to backup quarterback Malik Willis. Willis, a surprise addition before the 2024 season, not only played pivotal snaps for the Packers but also embarked on a career redemption journey that could land him a starting role elsewhere.
His contributions over the past two seasons were crucial in keeping the Packers' playoff hopes alive. Now, another team will hope to harness that same magic in a full-time capacity.
Credit goes to Matt LaFleur and his coaching staff for tapping into Willis’ natural talents and transforming him into a more complete passer. While the compensatory pick from the league will be a nod to his impact, the Packers are left without their top backup QB. General manager Brian Gutekunst has expressed a desire to continue developing quarterbacks, even if they aren’t an immediate necessity, hinting at a likely draft pick in the later rounds.
However, if Jordan Love faces any time off the field, as he did in the past two seasons, the Packers will likely want more than a rookie to rely on. A seasoned backup, modeled after Willis, would be ideal.
No team can perfect the art of quarterback development, but LaFleur and Gutekunst have a proven track record. Under LaFleur, Aaron Rodgers returned to MVP form, Jordan Love emerged as an elite starter, and Willis transformed from a forgotten pick into a sought-after free agent.
Willis’ journey began with the Tennessee Titans, where he struggled to find his footing amidst coaching changes and competition with Will Levis. After losing the starting job, Willis was traded to Green Bay, where he found new life.
Initially viewed as a potential top-five pick, Willis fell to the third round and had an underwhelming stint in Tennessee. Despite his dynamic rushing ability, his passing skills needed refinement.
In Green Bay, with Love sidelined in the 2024 opener, Willis stepped up. LaFleur crafted a game plan that played to Willis' strengths, focusing on the running game and easing him into the offense.
The strategy paid off, with Willis not needing to be the hero but rather play efficiently within the system. As defenses keyed in on his rushing, LaFleur would strategically unleash his arm.
The offense under Willis was distinct from Love's, tailored to their unique skill sets. By building on Willis’ strengths and addressing his growth areas, LaFleur elevated his performance significantly. Now, another team will benefit from this development.
Critics who clamored for Willis over Love missed the mark. Love remains a top-tier quarterback, commanding a significant salary. The Packers, aiming for contention, need a cost-effective backup who can step in seamlessly if needed.
The ideal candidate is a young, dual-threat quarterback who has been overlooked by another team. These quarterbacks, even if primarily runners, can maintain offensive momentum and allow LaFleur to implement a run-heavy approach. They can also deliver straightforward, well-designed passes, boosting their confidence as they refine their passing skills.
There are several intriguing options for the Packers. Anthony Richardson, a former top-five pick with immense athleticism, could be available if the Colts decide to move on. Although he might carry a higher price tag, his potential is undeniable.
Alternatively, Trey Lance, a free agent, fits the bill perfectly. Having played college ball with Christian Watson, Lance could be the ideal reclamation project. Desmond Ridder, already within the Packers’ ranks, might also be a viable option if he continues to progress.
Regardless of the path they choose, the Packers have a clear blueprint thanks to Malik Willis: seek out a young, talented dual-threat quarterback who hasn’t yet reached their full potential.