Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis has attracted attention due to speculation about his potential trade or signing in the upcoming offseason. Reports surfaced on Tuesday linking Willis with the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins, fueling conversations about his future as a free agent in March.
Despite the rumors, Browns insider Tony Grossi strongly dismissed any connection between Willis and the Browns, citing complications arising from Deshaun Watson’s significant salary cap impact.
“Anybody who connects Malik Willis to the Browns is ignorant of their Deshaun Watson cap situation. Ain’t happenin,'” Grossi tweeted on Tuesday.
Watson is under a five-year, $230 million contract signed in 2022, which includes a historic $80,716,514 salary cap charge for the 2026 season, the largest single-season cap hit ever recorded in the NFL. This financial obstacle makes adding Willis to the Browns roster highly unlikely.
Willis joined the Packers in August 2024 through a trade with the Tennessee Titans, serving as backup to Jordan Love. As his contract approaches free agency, his next destination remains uncertain amid these offseason discussions.
Miami Dolphins Consider Options at Quarterback for 2026 Season
The Miami Dolphins are reportedly in search of a new starting quarterback for the 2026 season, with Malik Willis emerging as a possible target. The Dolphins plan to move on from Tua Tagovailoa following a challenging year in leading the offense. Quinn Ewers is also available within the organization as a quarterback prospect.
After hiring Jeff Hafley as head coach in January, Miami still faces the task of selecting a franchise quarterback. The team’s search has generated attention around potential free agents, with Willis among those under consideration as the Dolphins attempt to strengthen their offensive lineup.
Financial Constraints Affect Browns’ Ability to Pursue Quarterback Additions
The Browns’ salary cap constraints, heavily influenced by Watson’s record-setting financial obligation, restrict their flexibility to pursue additional quarterbacks. This limitation effectively rules out acquiring Willis despite his availability and the speculative reports linking him to the team.
Given the complex cap situation and the impact on roster decisions, the Browns appear focused on managing their current commitments rather than engaging in significant moves during this offseason period.
Outlook for Malik Willis’s NFL Future as Free Agency Approaches
With Malik Willis eligible for free agency in March, his next steps will be closely watched by both fans and analysts. While the Browns appear unable to court him due to salary cap issues, the Dolphins could present an opportunity if they decide to release or replace their current quarterbacks.
Willis’s career progression, combined with the strategic directions of teams like Miami, will shape the quarterback landscape heading into the 2026 NFL season, making the offseason developments critical for all parties involved.
Anybody who connects Malik Willis to the Browns is ignorant of their Deshaun Watson cap situation. Ain't happenin'.
— Tony Grossi (@TonyGrossi) February 11, 2026
