Former Green Bay Packers quarterback and fan favorite Malik Willis is set to begin the next chapter of his career. Entering the 2026 season, he will be the starting quarterback for the Miami Dolphins.
After spending the last two years with the Packers and playing high-quality football in both seasons, Willis received a lucrative three-year, $67.5 million contract from the Dolphins in free agency. He has been given another chance to prove that he can be a full-time starter at the NFL level.
Unfortunately, Miami does not have a great supporting cast around him. Willis will have to scrape and fight for everything he gets this season.
Keeping that in mind, Willis has been hit with a stern warning ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Malik Willis Hit With Serious Warning Before 2026 Season
While he has played well as a backup the last two years in Green Bay, Willis has not been asked to be a full-time starter. There are many who don’t see him lasting through his first year as the starting quarterback of the Dolphins.
CBS Sports analyst Tyler Sullivan recently named Willis among the NFL quarterbacks who need to watch their backs this season.
“However, Willis is still in the midst of a make-or-break year for his long-term future under center. If the Dolphins struggle this season (and they currently have the second-best odds to have the fewest wins at +350), it’ll result in them having a high selection at the 2027 NFL Draft, which is expected to be loaded with top-tier quarterback prospects,” Sullivan wrote.
“Even if Willis delivers just an average year as the full-time starter and the wins simply don’t materialize, it could be enough for them to bring someone in with that first-rounder. He needs to leave no doubt he’s the guy, which is a lofty (albeit necessary) bar to meet.”
What Did Malik Willis Accomplish With the Packers?
Originally drafted by the Tennessee Titans with the No. 86 overall pick in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Willis’ career did not get off to a good start.
In 2022, he completed 31 of his 61 passes for 276 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. He threw only five passes in 2023, completing four of them for 74 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions. Over those two years, he ran for 144 yards and a score.
During his first season with the Packers, Willis completed 40 of his 54 passes for 550 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also chipped in 138 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Last season, he threw for 422 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions and ran for 123 yards and two touchdowns.
Those numbers effectively rejuvenated his entire career.
Green Bay fans are hoping to see Willis find success in Miami. He has an uphill battle ahead of him, but as long as he isn’t playing the Packers, he’ll hear loud cheering from the fans in Green Bay.
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