Dolphins Emerge as Top Destination for Ascending NFC Quarterback

Miami poised to sign free agent QB Malik Willis to two-year, $71 million deal

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Miami Dolphins have been identified as the best landing spot for free agent quarterback Malik Willis, who is coming off two strong seasons as the backup in Green Bay. Dolphins' new head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan previously worked with Willis in the Packers' organization, giving them familiarity with the 26-year-old QB. Willis is projected to command a two-year, $71 million contract, which would be a significant investment for the Dolphins as they look to reset at the quarterback position.

Why it matters

The Dolphins are in need of a long-term solution at quarterback after moving on from Tua Tagovailoa. Signing Willis would give them a dynamic playmaker with significant upside, though the price tag may be steep. Hafley and Sullivan's prior relationship with Willis could give Miami an edge in luring the ascending NFC quarterback to South Florida.

The details

Willis has been one of the better backup quarterbacks in the NFL over the past two seasons with the Packers. In 2025, he completed nearly 86% of his passes on 35 attempts and went 2-0 as a starter in 2024. Spotrac projects Willis will land a two-year, $71 million deal, which would be a significant investment for the Dolphins who are currently $16 million under the salary cap.

  • Willis served as the Packers' backup QB in 2024 and 2025.
  • The Dolphins are expected to move on from Tua Tagovailoa this offseason.

The players

Malik Willis

A 26-year-old free agent quarterback who has served as the backup in Green Bay for the past two seasons, showing promise as a dynamic playmaker.

Jeff Hafley

The new head coach of the Miami Dolphins, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Packers and has familiarity with Willis.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The new general manager of the Miami Dolphins, who spent 22 years in the Packers' front office, most recently as the Vice President of Player Personnel from 2022-2025.

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What they’re saying

“Could he [Willis] be a match for former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, seeking a reasonably priced answer he can build around in Miami?”

— Greg Auman, FOX Sports Analyst (FOX Sports)

What’s next

The Dolphins will need to determine if they are willing to commit a two-year, $71 million contract to Malik Willis in free agency as they look to find their long-term answer at quarterback.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' familiarity with Malik Willis through their new head coach and general manager gives them a clear advantage in pursuing the ascending NFC quarterback in free agency, though the steep price tag may give them pause as they look to rebuild their roster.