The Green Bay Packers quarterback room has officially lost a key piece of its depth. On March 12, 2026, the Miami Dolphins signed backup quarterback Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract, marking his departure from the Packers after two seasons in Wisconsin. This move leaves a notable vacancy behind starter Jordan Love and prompts immediate questions about how General Manager Brian Gutekunst will address the quarterback depth chart this offseason.
Willis, acquired by Green Bay prior to the 2024 season in a trade with the Tennessee Titans, served as the primary backup to Love. Although limited in regular-season action, his unique dual-threat skill set provided a layer of security and versatility for the offense. The Dolphins clearly saw enough potential and development to invest heavily in Willis as a potential starter.
The Willis Era in Green Bay: A Developmental Stint
Originally a third-round pick noted for his exceptional arm strength and rushing ability, Malik Willis joined the Packers as a reclamation project. His NFL journey required refinement in reading defenses and mastering offensive structure--areas the Packers hoped to improve through their quarterback development program.
Under Head Coach Matt LaFleur and quarterbacks coach Tom Clements, Willis appeared sparingly but memorably over two seasons. He completed 12 of 18 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown, and added 45 rushing yards on 9 carries. While these statistics are modest, Willis's contributions extended beyond the stat sheet. His practice presence, locker room leadership, and capacity as a change-of-pace option were valuable. Miami's substantial offer reportedly includes $45 million fully guaranteed with a $22.5 million signing bonus, demonstrating their belief in his growth.
Vacancy Behind Jordan Love and Potential Paths Forward
Willis's departure leaves Jordan Love as Green Bay's lone quarterback on the current roster, creating an untenable situation for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. The backup quarterback role is often critical, as past seasons have demonstrated the dangers of lacking reliable depth under center.
General Manager Brian Gutekunst and Coach LaFleur face several options to fill this void:
Veteran Free Agent Market
Signing a seasoned journeyman quarterback like Jacoby Brissett or Tyler Huntley could bring immediate experience and reliability. Though costlier, this would emphasize the Packers' urgency to maintain competitiveness and avoid disruption should Love be unavailable.NFL Draft Selection
With the 32nd overall pick in the 2026 Draft, the Packers might select a developmental quarterback on Day 2 or 3. Building through the draft aligns with Green Bay's historical strategy and offers a cost-efficient long-term solution, though it demands patience for rookie acclimation.Trade Opportunities
Gutekunst may explore acquiring a young quarterback with NFL experience from other teams aiming to offload talent. This middle ground combines some NFL readiness with a lower cost compared to veteran signings.Internal Promotion
Lacking other quarterbacks on the roster, signing an undrafted free agent or practice squad player to the backup role is possible but unlikely for a contender. Such a move would likely be temporary.
Impact on Jordan Love and Offensive Strategy
Willis's distinct playing style--mobile with a strong arm--offered the Packers a tactical wrinkle that defenses had to respect. His absence may prompt LaFleur to streamline the playbook or emphasize Love's own athleticism more heavily. The choice of replacement sends a strong organizational message: bringing in a veteran means prioritizing immediate success, while drafting a rookie bets on a long-term future.
Looking Ahead: A Defining Offseason Moment
Malik Willis's signing with the Miami Dolphins is the first domino in Green Bay's critical 2026 offseason sequence. The manner in which Brian Gutekunst fills this quarterback position will reveal the team's strategic direction.
Will the Packers invest in a known veteran to safeguard their championship window? Or will they trust their scouting and development system to uncover and nurture another promising talent?
With offseason programs soon beginning, and the active season's demands looming, addressing this open quarterback spot is imperative. The organization's ability to maintain depth and stability behind Jordan Love could influence the entire 2026 campaign's trajectory.
The chapter on Malik Willis in Green Bay is now closed. The search for his successor is officially underway, and Packers fans will be watching closely as the team maneuvers through this pivotal roster decision.