The quarterback carousel is already spinning ahead of the 2026 NFL offseason, and one name generating buzz is Malik Willis. After two seasons backing up Jordan Love in Green Bay, Willis is set to hit free agency-and don’t be surprised if teams like the Vikings, Rams, Steelers, and Colts come calling.
Now 26, Willis has quietly built a compelling case for a shot at a starting job. He’s not just a former third-round pick with untapped potential-he’s shown real growth in limited action.
In 2024, he stepped in for two starts and didn’t just manage the game-he won both, throwing three touchdowns with zero interceptions and adding another score with his legs. That’s the kind of efficient, dual-threat performance that turns heads in front offices.
Fast forward to 2025, and Willis looked even sharper. He completed an eye-popping 85.7% of his passes across four appearances.
Yes, it’s a small sample size, but the efficiency speaks volumes. He looked confident, decisive, and in command-traits you want in a quarterback ready to take the next step.
So where might that opportunity come from?
Minnesota is one of the most logical fits. The Vikings are expected to give J.J.
McCarthy a real shot at the starting job, but they need competition in the room. Willis could bring exactly that-someone who can push McCarthy in camp and potentially seize the role outright.
It’s a win-win: either McCarthy rises to the challenge, or Willis emerges as a high-upside starter.
Indianapolis is another intriguing landing spot. The Colts are planning to roll with Daniel Jones, who’s coming off a torn Achilles.
But if Jones struggles or isn’t fully ready, Willis could be a strong insurance policy. He brings a different element to the offense-more mobility, more improvisation-and could thrive with a coaching staff willing to tailor the scheme to his strengths.
Los Angeles enters the conversation if Matthew Stafford decides to hang it up. Sean McVay’s offense has long been predicated on timing and precision, but adding a quarterback like Willis would open up a new dimension.
His athleticism could breathe fresh life into a Rams attack that’s lacked mobility at the quarterback spot for years. In McVay’s hands, Willis could be a fascinating project with a high ceiling.
Pittsburgh also makes sense, especially if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return. The Steelers are in a transitional phase at quarterback, and Willis could be the kind of bridge starter who brings upside while keeping them competitive. With Mike McCarthy reportedly in the mix, there’s a coaching infrastructure that could help Willis continue his development while giving Pittsburgh a dynamic option under center.
And let’s talk about the market. Willis isn’t just playing for a shot-he’s playing for a payday.
Spotrac projects he could land a two-year, $71 million deal. That’s $35.5 million annually-starter money.
And while that might raise eyebrows considering his limited résumé, the league is always willing to bet on quarterbacks who show flashes of playmaking ability and growth. Willis checks both boxes.
Bottom line: Malik Willis has earned the right to compete for a starting job in 2026. Whether it's pushing a young QB in Minnesota, backing up a recovering vet in Indy, stepping into a potential vacancy in L.A., or bridging the gap in Pittsburgh, he’s positioned to be one of the most intriguing quarterback options on the market this offseason.
The tools are there. The tape is promising. Now it’s time to see which team is ready to give him the keys.