Malik Willis appears ready to pursue a starting quarterback position elsewhere in the NFL, moving on from the Green Bay Packers in this free agency period. He has several opportunities, including interest from Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley, a former Packers defensive coordinator, though Miami is not the leading contender to sign him.
According to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports,
“The overwhelming belief from people I’ve spoken with is that Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley favors signing Malik Willis, the former Green Bay Packers backup who is slated for free agency. Yet, many question whether Miami will have enough money to sign Willis in free agency, considering the interest building in the quarterback and the contract he will ultimately sign. People I’ve spoken with believe Willis ends up with the Arizona Cardinals, as they are expected to cut ties with Kyler Murray.”
– Tony Pauline, Sports Journalist
Arizona Cardinals Prioritize Moving On From Kyler Murray
The Arizona Cardinals‘ main focus this offseason is to either cut or trade Kyler Murray before his 2027 salary becomes guaranteed. Although the possibility exists that Tua Tagovailoa could be traded to the Cardinals—especially if Miami absorbs part of his contract—the Cardinals see signing Malik Willis as a more cost-effective option with considerable potential upside.
Opportunity to Work with Familiar Coaches in Arizona
While Malik Willis served as a backup quarterback in Green Bay, his connection with head coach Matt LaFleur was strong, considering their roles. Although the Packers face a significant depth void behind starting quarterback Jordan Love, Willis is likely to depart in search of a starting role that could define his career.
The most promising option for Willis seems to be joining the Arizona Cardinals under offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, Matt LaFleur’s brother. Arizona’s new offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett, has direct ties to Green Bay, having worked as an analyst on Matt LaFleur’s staff in 2025. This shared history creates a natural environment for Willis to thrive.
Willis’ performance during 11 games at Green Bay—including three starts—was notable: he completed 70 of 89 passes (78.7%) for 972 yards, added 261 rushing yards, and scored nine total touchdowns. Hackett’s experience working closely with elite quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers, whose best statistical seasons he helped engineer, adds valuable insight into Willis’s playing style. Although Hackett will not be the Cardinals’ play-caller, his knowledge of Willis’s tendencies complements Mike LaFleur’s role.
Mike LaFleur can consult with his brother Matt if questions arise about Willis’s development, strengthening the support system around the young quarterback as he moves into a leadership role. In a league often influenced by relationships, this network seems to provide a practical and beneficial fit for Willis’s next chapter.
Moving Beyond Green Bay: A New Chapter for Malik Willis
The Packers organization played a significant role in reshaping Malik Willis’s career, but as free agency approaches, a reunion with the LaFleur family—this time in Arizona—represents an appealing path forward. While the rapport with Miami’s Jeff Hafley is acknowledged, Arizona offers a more immediate opportunity for success and growth in a competitive, win-now scenario.
