The Miami Dolphins are navigating a tricky quarterback situation this offseason. With Tua Tagovailoa likely on his way out, the team is in search of a new leader under center.
Currently, Quinn Ewers stands as the only quarterback on the roster, but relying solely on him for the 2026 season isn't a viable strategy. Whether through the draft, free agency, or a trade, the Dolphins need to bring in another QB to bolster their lineup.
However, the Dolphins received some unwelcome news regarding Malik Willis, a quarterback they've been frequently linked to. ESPN's Bill Barnwell projects that Willis, the former Green Bay Packers QB, could command a contract worth $30 million this offseason. This figure poses a significant challenge for Miami.
Barnwell places Willis in the "Tier 4: Borderline starters/high-end backups" category, projecting an annual salary between $20 and $30 million. For the Dolphins, already committed to $52 million for Tagovailoa this season, such a hefty investment in another QB is daunting.
While Willis offers intriguing potential as a dual-threat quarterback, the financial commitment required-especially if it nears $30 million annually-might be too steep for a team in transition.
With several teams likely interested in Willis, the Dolphins might need to explore more budget-friendly veteran options to pair with Ewers. Players like Jacoby Brissett, Kirk Cousins, or Geno Smith could provide solid alternatives at a more manageable cost for Miami in the 2026 season.