Malik Willis Joins Dolphins, Hoping to Revive Career

The former Titans and Packers QB signs a 3-year, $67.5 million deal with Miami.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:09am

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Malik Willis, a third-round pick by the Titans in 2022, has signed a three-year, $67.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins. After struggling in his first few NFL seasons, Willis is looking to revive his career in Miami, where he'll compete for the starting quarterback job. The Dolphins are hoping Willis can follow in the footsteps of other recent QB turnaround stories like Geno Smith and Sam Darnold.

Why it matters

Willis represents a high-upside gamble for the Dolphins, who are in the midst of a rebuild. If he can unlock his potential, Willis could be Miami's long-term answer at quarterback. However, the Dolphins will need to show patience as Willis continues developing, especially given the team's current salary cap constraints.

The details

Willis was a third-round pick by the Titans in 2022 after a standout college career at Liberty. He struggled in his first two NFL seasons, starting just 6 games. In 2024, he was traded to the Packers, where he showed significant growth as a passer while serving as a backup. Willis credits his time in Green Bay for helping him improve his mechanics and overall understanding of the game. Now in Miami, he'll compete with Tua Tagovailoa for the starting QB job.

  • Willis was drafted by the Titans in 2022.
  • He was traded to the Packers in 2024.
  • Willis signed with the Dolphins on March 13, 2026.

The players

Malik Willis

A 26-year-old quarterback who was a third-round pick by the Titans in 2022 and is now joining the Dolphins on a 3-year, $67.5 million contract.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Dolphins' current starting quarterback, who will compete with Willis for the QB1 job.

Jon-Eric Sullivan

The Dolphins' general manager, who previously worked with Willis in Green Bay.

Jeff Hafley

The Dolphins' head coach, who also has prior experience with Willis from Green Bay.

De'Von Achane

The Dolphins' running back, who will be one of Willis' key offensive weapons.

Jaylen Waddle

The Dolphins' star wide receiver, who will also be a key target for Willis.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think I put a timeline on it. It happened when I was prepared. I think when I came in the league I wasn't prepared.”

— Malik Willis, Quarterback

“Every part of the journey here has been amazing, even the times that we're tough and when you were like 'Golly, is it ever going to happen?' And boom it happens out of nowhere. You just don't know how it's going to go but all you can do is prepare yourself and take advantage of each day.”

— Malik Willis, Quarterback

What’s next

The Dolphins will hold an open competition between Willis and Tua Tagovailoa for the starting quarterback job during training camp and the preseason.

The takeaway

Malik Willis represents a high-risk, high-reward signing for the Dolphins as they look to find their long-term answer at quarterback. If he can continue developing and unlock his immense potential, Willis could be the solution. However, the Dolphins will need to show patience as he adjusts to the NFL game.