Could Malik Willis Be the Dolphins' Next Big Move? Here's Why the Fit Makes Sense
Malik Willis is about to become one of the most intriguing names on the free agent market - and not just because he might be the top quarterback available this offseason. With Daniel Jones expected to return to Indianapolis, Willis finds himself in a unique position: a talented, ascending backup who could command a starting opportunity - and a significant payday - in the right situation.
He’s expected to draw strong interest across the league, and one team keeps popping up more than most: the Miami Dolphins. And the connection isn’t hard to trace.
Miami’s new leadership duo - general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley - both come straight from Green Bay, where Willis spent the last two seasons backing up Jordan Love. That familiarity matters, especially when you’re talking about the most important position in football.
They’ve seen Willis up close. They know the work ethic, the development curve, and the potential.
And let’s be honest - the Dolphins could use a contingency plan under center.
Tua Tagovailoa has had a rough couple of seasons. Injuries, inconsistency, and questions about long-term durability have clouded what once looked like a promising trajectory.
Miami’s offense has flashed, sure, but the team hasn’t been able to sustain success when it matters most. That opens the door for a move like this - one that gives the Dolphins both insurance and upside.
Willis, still just 26, didn’t see much action in Green Bay - only 314 snaps over two seasons - but when he did get on the field, he looked sharp. He posted an impressive 85.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, with a 79.9 passing grade.
That’s not just filler work in garbage time - that’s real, efficient quarterback play in limited reps. Five big-time throws against just one turnover-worthy play?
That’s the kind of ratio that makes coaches take notice.
The former Titans draft pick has clearly grown since his early NFL days. His time in Green Bay, learning behind Love and within a stable offensive structure, seems to have paid off. He’s more poised, more decisive, and more accurate - all traits that were question marks when he first entered the league.
And here’s the kicker: Willis is likely to command an eight-figure salary per year, but not at the top-tier quarterback level. That’s a sweet spot for a team like Miami, which could use a quality quarterback option without blowing up the cap. Especially with the looming financial implications of Tua’s deal, adding a cost-controlled, ascending QB makes a lot of sense.
Free agency doesn’t officially open until mid-March, so there’s still time for this rumor to swirl - and it probably will. But the dots are easy to connect: a talented quarterback hitting free agency, a front office and coaching staff that knows him well, and a team that could be looking for a fresh start under center.
If the Dolphins want to turn the page and build something sustainable, Malik Willis could be the quarterback to help them do it.