Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis is set to become a free agent this offseason, drawing interest from multiple teams following several notable appearances during the 2025 season. Willis, who has spent the past two years as the backup to Jordan Love, has showcased skills that have placed him in the spotlight as a potential starting quarterback candidate.
Willis’s rising profile comes partly because of his performances while filling in for Love, displaying a combination of strong arm talent and mobility that has impressed observers and NFL insiders alike.
Chris Simms Weighs In on Willis and Love Comparison
On the Dan Patrick Show, former NFL quarterback Chris Simms praised Malik Willis’s talent and potential as he discussed the quarterback’s future prospects. Simms referred to Willis as a “superstar” and highlighted his unique skill set.
“I think Malik Willis is a superstar,” Simms said. “I would think he is the crowning gem of guys that’s going to be out there as far as free agents you can get.” – Chris Simms, Former NFL QB
When asked about the possible interest from the Pittsburgh Steelers, Simms acknowledged that team could benefit from Willis’s abilities, emphasizing his arm strength, mobility, and understanding of the offense.
“If I were them, I’d be looking at that,” Simms said. “Malik Willis has proven he’s got special talent. He’s got a special arm, special mobility. He knows how to run the offense and do all of that. So yeah, he’s a great story here.” – Chris Simms, Former NFL QB
Simms also compared Willis with Jordan Love, admitting the competition between them is closer than anticipated.
“It’s closer than I ever thought it would be,” Simms said. “And I’m really a Jordan Love fan … but Malik Willis, I’m not going to say he’s better than Jordan Love right now. I will say he shows more potential to be a greater player than Jordan Love. That’s what I would say right now, but I’ve got to see a little more before I say he’s better than Jordan Love.” – Chris Simms, Former NFL QB
Willis’s Journey from the Titans to the Packers
Malik Willis began his NFL career as a third-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in the 2022 draft. After two seasons with limited action, he was traded to the Green Bay Packers in August 2024. The 2025 season marked the final year of his rookie contract originally signed with Tennessee.
During his time stepping in for Jordan Love, Willis completed 85.7% of his passes for 422 yards, throwing three touchdowns without an interception, and achieved an impressive passer rating of 145.5. He also contributed on the ground with 22 carries for 123 yards and two rushing touchdowns, demonstrating his dual-threat capabilities.
Clarifying Rumors Around Willis’s Free Agency Destinations
Speculation around Malik Willis’s next team intensified after reports suggested the Cleveland Browns were pursuing him. However, Browns insider Tony Grossi refuted those rumors, pointing out the team’s constrained salary cap situation due to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s contract.
“Anybody who connects Malik Willis to the Browns is ignorant of their Deshaun Watson cap situation. Ain’t happenin,'” Grossi tweeted.
While the Browns appear unlikely to pursue Willis, the Miami Dolphins have reportedly shown interest in acquiring him as they look to solidify their quarterback depth going into the next season.
Implications for the Packers and the NFL Quarterback Landscape
The rising tension between Malik Willis and Jordan Love within the Packers organization raises important questions about the team’s future at the quarterback position. Willis’s strong end to the 2025 season and evident growth suggest he could challenge Love’s role, especially as Willis enters free agency and attracts interest from teams like Miami and potentially Pittsburgh.
This competition illustrates the high stakes for the Packers and highlights the fluid nature of NFL quarterback dynamics, where performance and potential weigh heavily on decisions. As the offseason unfolds, the Packers will need to evaluate which player aligns best with their strategic goals, while Malik Willis’s next contract and destination remain key storylines to watch.
"I think Malik Willis is a superstar."
– @CSimmsQB gives his thoughts on the impending free agent QB. pic.twitter.com/DMCDwqD1JL
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) February 12, 2026
