After spending two seasons with the Green Bay Packers, backup quarterback Malik Willis is expected to leave the team through NFL free agency. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst reinforced this outlook on Wednesday, sharing his thoughts on Willis’ future in Green Bay during a press conference.
Gutekunst Indicates Willis May Seek More Playing Time Elsewhere
“We’d love to have Malik back,”
Gutekunst said (h/t Luke Norris of Lombardi Ave),
“but at the same time, to be realistic, I think he’s going to have a lot of opportunities to play more than he would here, so we’ll see where that goes.”
This statement suggests that Willis’ tenure in Titletown might soon come to an end as he looks for a chance to start or play a larger role than the backup position offers behind Jordan Love.
Willis’ Performance Shows Promise Despite Limited Opportunities
Throughout his two seasons with the Packers, Willis has seen limited playing time, appearing in 11 games and starting three of them. When given a chance, he displayed impressive efficiency with 972 passing yards, six touchdowns, zero interceptions, and a 78.7% completion rate. Additionally, Willis has contributed on the ground, rushing for 261 yards and three touchdowns on 42 carries, including 15 first downs.
Free Agency Expected to Draw Interest for Willis
Willis’ improved performance has likely raised his profile among other NFL teams. At 27 years old this May, he has benefitted from his time in Green Bay, which followed a less productive stint with the Tennessee Titans, who originally drafted him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Since being traded to Green Bay in August 2024, Willis’ development and playmaking ability have caught the attention of multiple parties looking for quarterback options in free agency.
His departure could offer Willis the playing time he desires and give the Packers roster flexibility while continuing to build around their starter, Jordan Love.
