Packers quarterback Malik Willis is expected to draw heavy free agent interest this offseason, per ESPN’s Dan Graziano.
The former Titans third-rounder did not show much in Tennessee, but he has found a grove in Green Bay over the last two years. Willis won both of his starts in 2024 and has generally played well when called upon. This year, he took a few snaps in Weeks 11 and 12 before an extended relief appearance last week after Jordan Love sustained a concussion. Willis completed eight of his 11 passes for 121 yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions while adding 44 yards on the ground, though he could not lead a game-winning drive in overtime. The Packers offense has generally functioned smoothly with Willis under center.
That is why other teams will likely be interested this offseason. Willis himself may want a chance to compete for a starting job, which he will not get in Green Bay barring a significant injury to Love. A team looking for a quarterback could look to Willis as a bridge quarterback or reclamation project, perhaps to compete with a young passer for a starting job. Willis’ success in a McVay-style offense could be especially appealing to teams with similar offenses and/or a coach from McVay’s tree.
Unsurprisingly, the Packers would prefer to retain Willis as a high-end backup for exactly the situation that has come up this week. Love did not clear concussion protocol by the end of Green Bay’s practice week on Thursday, though he did progress though a few phases. He is also dealing with a left (non-throwing) shoulder injury and is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game. That positions Willis to start on Saturday against the Ravens, though he is dealing with a shoulder injury to his throwing arm as well as an illness. He is also listed as questionable, though he said earlier in the week (via The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman) that he expects to play.
Makes a ton of sense for a team that intends to draft a young QB. Have them compete.
Miami may make sense, as a team who will need to address QB but likely misses out on the Mendoza/Moore/Simpson (if he declares) bucket.
Felt like that game last week was an audition for Miami……..
“Found a grove” sounds like something a Michigan coach would do. No mention of Ashteroth.
I would love to see him with jets he could win that city some games if they build around him. If not for Stetson he’d be a great rams successor to Stafford if he finally calls it quits.
Stetson will turn 29 next season and hasn’t thrown an NFL pass. I would take Willis over him. I think Stafford plays two more seasons though.
I’d take the B/U pay and spend another 12-15 years in the league w/o too many injuries. Solid paychecks!
I liked Willis coming out of the draft, can’t blame him for what happened in Tennessee. He’s looked good when he’s gotten chances in GB. Probably sign a decent backup contract like Mac Jones did in SF. I like him for the Vikes or Falcons.