Malik Willis is poised to attract significant interest in the free agency market this coming offseason, according to insights from ESPN's Dan Graziano.
Once a third-round pick by the Titans, Willis struggled to make an impact during his time in Tennessee. However, his performance has markedly improved since joining the Green Bay Packers, especially over the past two seasons. In 2024, he managed to win both of his starts, illustrating his capability to perform well when given the opportunity. This season, he took the field briefly during Weeks 11 and 12, but made a notable appearance last week when he stepped in for Jordan Love, who was sidelined due to a concussion. During this game, Willis completed 8 of 11 passes for an impressive 121 yards, securing one touchdown without any interceptions, while also rushing for 44 yards. Despite his effort, he was unable to engineer a game-winning drive in overtime. Overall, the Packers' offense has remained effective with Willis at the helm.
Because of his recent success, it is highly likely that other NFL teams will show interest in Willis as a free agent this offseason. Willis may be eager to find a team where he can compete for a starting position, something that seems unlikely in Green Bay unless Love faces a serious injury. Teams searching for a quarterback could view Willis as a viable option, whether as a temporary solution or a project intended to push a younger quarterback for the starting job. Given Willis’ effectiveness in an offensive system similar to that of Sean McVay, he could be particularly attractive to franchises with either a comparable scheme or coaches branching from McVay’s coaching tree.
The Packers, on their part, would prefer to keep Willis as a top-quality backup, which is exactly what they need in situations like this one. Jordan Love has not yet cleared the concussion protocol in time for the end of the practice week on Thursday, although he has shown progress through various recovery phases. Additionally, he is contending with a left shoulder injury, which is not affecting his throwing arm, leaving him listed as questionable for the upcoming Saturday match against the Ravens. This scenario potentially places Willis in the starting role against Baltimore, even though he himself is dealing with a shoulder issue on his throwing side along with an illness. Nevertheless, he indicated earlier this week, via The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman, that he anticipates being able to play.
