Malik Willis' Potential Landing Spots, Contract Value Updated in Latest NFL Rumors Ahead of FA

Quarterback Malik Willis is a major name in free agency this offseason after playing well in stretches for the Green Bay Packers, but that reportedly doesn't mean he will land a contract offering him $30 million per year.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Sunday that "a team offering him $30-plus million per year doesn't appear realistic" despite "at least two and possibly several teams" that could be interested. Fowler reported the Miami Dolphins have been connected to the signal-caller, while the Arizona Cardinals are another possible landing spot with the Cleveland Browns "likely" out.

He also pointed to an annual range of $20-25 million as "a good starting point" for Willis' eventual contract and highlighted Justin Fields' two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets as a possible blueprint.

It should be noted that even though Willis has played well in a backup role, he is anything but a proven commodity at this point of his career.

The 2022 third-round draft pick has made just six total starts and is 3-3 in those games. He did go 2-0 with three touchdown passes to zero interceptions in 2024 in place of Jordan Love, but $30 million per year would be quite the risk for someone so unproven.

He appeared in four games last season with one start (a loss) and completed 85.7 percent of his passes for 422 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions while running for 123 yards and two scores.

"Multiple offensive coaches said Willis has the chance to be the league's best rushing quarterback and that he has the power in his legs and arm to drive the ball to all parts of the field," Fowler reported.

However, an offensive coach pointed out, "The issue will be that you simply can't run your whole offense with him. He's not ready to handle that. So, whether he can sustain a full season will be a question. But he's got a lot of ability and terrific character."

One thing working in Willis' favor is the lack of surefire quarterback options available this offseason.

While Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa could both be available down the line, they come with their own set of questions and perhaps a higher price tag. Then there is the NFL draft, which is not exactly loaded with top prospects at the position.

In fact, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza and Alabama's Ty Simpson are the only two quarterbacks in the top 50 prospects on the most recent big board from B/R's NFL Scouting Department, and Mendoza will likely go No. 1 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Teams that need a quarterback don't have many proven options to choose from, which could drive up Willis' price tag even if there are some concerns.