Malik Willis Is Turning Heads - And He’s Not Just a Backup Anymore
Every offseason, a wave of backup quarterbacks quietly hits the free-agent market, hoping for a camp invite or a clipboard gig. But Malik Willis?
He’s not part of that crowd. After a strong stretch in Green Bay, Willis has positioned himself as one of the most intriguing quarterback options available - not just as a depth piece, but as a legitimate candidate to compete for starting reps.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t the same Malik Willis we saw struggling early in his NFL journey. His time with the Packers has reshaped the narrative.
In limited opportunities, he flashed the kind of dual-threat ability that once made him a high-upside prospect. And now, with multiple teams facing question marks under center, Willis is drawing real interest - not just as a stopgap, but as a potential solution.
Miami Dolphins: Familiar Faces, Familiar Fit
The team most frequently linked to Willis is the Miami Dolphins - and there’s a lot of connective tissue here. New head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan both come from Green Bay, meaning they’ve seen Willis up close.
That familiarity matters. They know what he brings to the table: mobility, arm strength, and a willingness to push the ball downfield.
Miami’s quarterback situation is in flux, and while there’s still talent on the roster, the uncertainty at the position makes Willis an intriguing option. He’s not a perfect fit in every system, but in Miami - with coaches who understand how to maximize his skill set - there’s a real opportunity for him to compete.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A New Era, A New QB?
The Steelers are another team reportedly doing their homework on Willis. With a rare head coaching change shaking things up in Pittsburgh, the franchise is at a bit of a crossroads - especially at quarterback. The current depth chart is unsettled, and there’s a clear opening for someone who can step in and bring some juice to the offense.
Willis fits the bill. He’s not just a runner - though his legs are a weapon - but he’s also shown growth as a passer.
In Pittsburgh, he could be a bridge quarterback or even push for a longer-term role if he clicks with the new coaching staff. Either way, the Steelers need a spark, and Willis could bring that.
New York Jets: Looking for a Playmaker
The Jets are in a familiar spot: plenty of draft capital, a roster with talent, and a glaring need at quarterback. If they decide to pass on taking a rookie early - or even if they do and want a veteran to compete - Willis is a name to watch.
His upside is hard to ignore, especially for a team that’s been stuck in quarterback purgatory for years. Even if he doesn’t win the starting job outright, he’d be a strong insurance policy and a potential bridge option. The Jets need a playmaker, and Willis has shown he can be just that when given the chance.
Other Teams to Watch
Beyond those three, keep an eye on the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, and Las Vegas Raiders. All three have reasons to kick the tires on a quarterback with upside, and Willis fits that mold. Whether it’s as a backup with a chance to rise or as a direct challenger for the starting gig, he’s earned the right to be in the mix.
Bottom Line: Malik Willis isn’t just hanging around the fringes of the league anymore. After revitalizing his career in Green Bay, he’s become one of the more compelling quarterback options on the market.
He’s still got something to prove - but this time, he’s got momentum on his side. And as teams look to solidify their quarterback rooms, Willis is a name that keeps coming up - for good reason.