Malik Willis Signs Three-Year Deal with Miami Dolphins
Quarterback Malik Willis has reportedly signed a three-year contract with the Miami Dolphins, valued at an average annual salary of $22.5 million. This agreement follows reports of the Dolphins releasing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Willis, 26, was originally drafted by the Tennessee Titans and most recently played for the Green Bay Packers.
Malik Willis's new agreement with the Dolphins is a three-year contract, reportedly worth $22.5 million annually.
Contract Details and Market Projections
The reported contract for Malik Willis is a three-year agreement with an average annual salary of $22.5 million. Prior to the signing, various projections regarding Willis's market value were reported. Some projections estimated a range of $20 million to $25 million per year, potentially increasing to $30 million with significant team interest. Other analyses projected his market value between $8 million and $14 million annually, noting that a competitive bidding environment could elevate this figure.
One report suggested Willis might aim for a contract structure with a lower initial cap number that increases later, potentially providing leverage for a future extension based on performance.
Player Background and Performance Overview
Early Career with the Tennessee Titans
Malik Willis, 26, was a second-round selection by the Tennessee Titans in the 2022 NFL Draft. During his two years with the Titans, he appeared in four games, starting three. His performance during this period included instances of turnovers and extended ball-holding, which contributed to sacks.
Development with the Green Bay Packers
Following his time with the Titans, Willis joined the Green Bay Packers. With the Packers, he appeared in 11 games, starting six. Reports from this period indicated an improvement in his play, noting his athletic ability and arm talent. He demonstrated effectiveness in designed quarterback runs and in converting potential sacks into positive yardage scrambles. Willis was also noted for his ability to throw accurately on the run, including deep passes. Across his professional career, Willis has accumulated a total of 15 appearances and 9 starts.
Team Context and Market Considerations
The reported signing of Willis by the Miami Dolphins occurred following reports of the team releasing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The Green Bay Packers were considered unlikely to retain Willis as their No. 2 quarterback behind Jordan Love. Prior to the reported signing, the Arizona Cardinals were also identified as a potential fit for Willis.
Quarterback Market Comparisons
Contract comparisons for quarterbacks were noted in analyses of Willis's market. Justin Fields, for example, signed a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets, including $30 million guaranteed, after accumulating over 40 NFL starts. Daniel Jones signed a one-year, $14 million deal to compete for a starting position. For backup quarterbacks, deals for players such as Jacoby Brissett, Davis Mills, and Marcus Mariota were reported to be in the range of $6 million to $8 million annually.