GREEN BAY, WI — As the NFL offseason kicks into high gear, Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis has emerged as one of the most coveted prizes on the 2026 free-agent market. Following a remarkable career resurgence in Wisconsin, reports on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, indicate that at least three teams are preparing substantial offers to secure the 26-year-old as their primary starter.
Frontrunners Emerge in the Willis Sweepstakes
According to league insiders, the Miami Dolphins and Arizona Cardinals have established themselves as the frontrunners for Willis’ services. Both franchises are reportedly seeking dynamic playmaking at the position, a trait Willis displayed in abundance during his tenure with the Packers. The Cleveland Browns have also been linked to the former Liberty standout, potentially viewing him as a veteran competitor for Shedeur Sanders.
Market analysts suggest Willis could command a contract in the range of $26 million to $40 million, a staggering increase in value since he was traded from the Tennessee Titans for a seventh-round pick in August 2024. Some experts compare his projected “prove it” deal to the contract recently signed by Justin Fields with the New York Jets.
A Statistical Masterclass in Green Bay
Willis’ skyrocketing stock is the result of elite efficiency during his time under Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. Across 11 appearances between the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Willis silenced critics with a refined passing game and disciplined decision-making. His statistical profile over that span is elite:
- Completion Percentage: 78% (70 of 89 attempts)
- Passing Yards: 972
- Touchdowns: 6 Passing, 3 Rushing
- Interceptions: 0
- Passer Rating: 134.6
Public insights from PFF and NFL analysts highlight that Willis led the league in EPA (Expected Points Added) per play during his active stretches, proving he has evolved from a “project” into a high-caliber NFL starter.
The Path from Tennessee to Top Target
Originally drafted in the third round (86th overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, Willis struggled early in his career with pocket presence and progressions. However, his physical tools—including a 6’1″, 225-pound frame and top-tier speed clocked at over 20.5 mph—remained undeniable.
His “revenge game” against the Titans, where he posted 202 passing yards and 73 rushing yards, served as a turning point that convinced scouts he was ready for a full-time starting role. While the Packers would reportedly love to retain Willis as a backup to Jordan Love, the financial reality of his $26 million-plus market value makes a departure from Green Bay almost certain.
As the legal tampering period approaches, the NFL world will be watching to see if Miami’s “Packers connections” or Arizona’s need for dual-threat stability will ultimately land the man currently dubbed the most overachieving reclamation project in recent league history.