The discussion about whether the Pittsburgh Steelers should pursue Malik Willis, and under what terms, has become a key topic in the team’s offseason planning. This debate is unfolding amid uncertainties about Aaron Rodgers‘ future, with many expecting him to return and reunite with Mike McCarthy by the 2026 season. However, until Rodgers’ contract is finalized, the question remains unresolved.
Rodgers is widely regarded as a temporary fix, entering his 22nd NFL season. He contributed significantly last season, helping the Steelers reach the playoffs, but even at his prime, the team would still need a sustainable quarterback solution. Malik Willis stands out as the most prominent quarterback available in free agency, but this status raises questions about the overall quality of free agent quarterbacks rather than solely highlighting his talent.
The Context of Malik Willis’ Career and Draft Background
Willis was part of the disappointing 2022 quarterback draft class, which also included Steelers’ former first-round pick Kenny Pickett. Pickett lasted only two seasons with the Steelers before being traded, which may have made the front office cautious about investing heavily in a high quarterback pick again. Willis was selected in the third round, partly because his small-school experience and limited collegiate offensive system meant he needed more development at the professional level. The Steelers chose Pickett over Willis initially based on the belief that Pickett was more ready for the NFL, a judgment that proved overly optimistic.
Malik Willis’ NFL Performance to Date
Over four seasons, Willis has started six games, achieving a .500 record of 3-3, including a 2-1 performance over the last two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. His career passing statistics include completing 105 of 155 attempts, throwing for 1,322 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions. Last year, Willis completed 30 of 35 passes for 422 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 123 yards and scoring two rushing touchdowns, demonstrating mobility as well as passing ability.
Comparing the Free Agent Quarterback Options
The quarterback market includes familiar names such as Daniel Jones, Russell Wilson, Marcus Mariota, Zach Wilson, Joe Flacco, Trey Lance, and even Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Kyle Allen. Aaron Rodgers remains a significant factor as well. Among these options, Malik Willis is widely viewed as the most promising available talent, sparking debate about whether the Steelers should prioritize him moving forward.
Willis will turn 27 this year, adding to his potential value as a quarterback with room to develop. The Steelers’ head coach, Mike McCarthy, has a reputation for nurturing quarterbacks, increasing the appeal of Willis as part of the team’s future. However, uncertainty swirls around what contract demands Willis might present in free agency. For context, Justin Fields secured a two-year, $40 million contract with $30 million guaranteed recently. The Steelers must weigh what price would justify choosing Willis over continuing with Rodgers or preparing for Rodgers’ possible retirement.
Steelers’ Playoff Challenges and Future Outlook
The Steelers exited the playoffs in the first round for the seventh consecutive time, maintaining a troubling streak with no postseason victories in nearly ten years. With this prolonged lack of playoff success, the team faces a critical offseason likely to introduce many changes, though none may surpass the importance of Mike Tomlin’s continued role as head coach.
While the NFL has crowned a new champion, the Steelers remain in offseason mode, confronting the familiar cycle of reflection and uncertainty that accompanies early playoff exits. For followers of the team, enduring this turbulence is part of the journey, one defined by persistence amid modest progress and ongoing evaluation of key decisions, including those regarding the Malik Willis Steelers trade debate.
