Although many NFL insiders expect quarterback Malik Willis to sign with the Miami Dolphins due to connections with Miami’s new head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan—both of whom were with Willis in Green Bay—new reports suggest otherwise. According to NBC Sports’ Matthew Berry, Willis may actually join the Arizona Cardinals on a contract worth at least $30 million per year.
Unexpected Turn in Malik Willis’ Team Destination
Matthew Berry disclosed a contrary rumor amid widespread expectations.
“Now, everyone wants Malik Willis to go to the Miami Dolphins,”
Berry said.
“I heard no. I heard Malik Willis is getting at least $30 million and is going to be the starting quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals.”
This proposed deal would place Willis as the primary quarterback for Arizona, shifting the narrative away from Miami.
Connections Linking Willis to Arizona
The link between Willis and the Cardinals is subtle but notable. Mike LaFleur, who recently became head coach of the Cardinals, is the brother of Matt LaFleur, Willis’ soon-to-be former coach in Green Bay. It is reasonable to assume Matt LaFleur might recommend Willis to his brother Mike LaFleur in Arizona.
This is not the first time Willis’ potential move to Arizona has surfaced. Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports also indicated earlier in the week that the Cardinals are the most likely destination for Willis, emphasizing the team’s possible plans to move on from their current quarterback.
Arizona’s Quarterback Spot Poised for Change
With Kyler Murray expected to be cut or traded by the Cardinals, the team is left searching for a long-term solution at quarterback. As Pauline reported,
“People I’ve spoken with believe Willis ends up with the Arizona Cardinals, as they are expected to cut ties with Kyler Murray.”
Currently, Jacoby Brissett serves as the Cardinals’ quarterback. Although Brissett performed well last season, his potential is seen as limited compared to Willis’ upside, making Willis an attractive candidate to build the Cardinals’ offense around.
Anticipated Timeline for Malik Willis’ Free Agency Outcome
The uncertainty surrounding Willis’ future will soon be resolved as the NFL’s free agency legal tampering window opens on March 9. The official start of free agency comes shortly after, on March 11, when teams will finalize contracts and player movements.
This impending timeline adds tension to Malik Willis’ situation, as both fans and analysts watch closely to see if the rumors hold true and whether the Cardinals will indeed secure his talents over other interested teams such as the Dolphins.
QB rumors from the NFL Combine! @matthewberrytmr on where Malik Willis and Kyler Murray wind up? Who do the Vikings like? And more important, what big name QB are they NOT interested in? pic.twitter.com/SK4yx4zfVQ
— Rotoworld Football (@rotoworld_fb) February 28, 2026
