Former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis made a strong impression in his Miami Dolphins debut, showcasing his potential as a starting quarterback. Willis, who spent the last two years as the backup to Jordan Love, displayed similar traits to those he exhibited with the Packers, looking poised in the pocket, using his legs effectively, and making a deep throw during a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive. His performance in the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders was impressive, with a 4-of-5 passing record, 52 yards, and a quarterback rating of 102.5. This is not the first time Willis has made a strong showing; he also led an opening touchdown drive against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17 last year, putting him on the radar of general managers across the NFL. The Dolphins, in rebuild mode, signed Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract, with the aim of him taking over as the starting quarterback. This move is particularly interesting given the team's recent hiring of former Packers vice president of player personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan as their new general manager and the appointment of former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as the new head coach. The Dolphins' strategy of rebuilding with Willis at the helm and a new coaching staff is a bold one, and it will be fascinating to see how it unfolds. Willis' talent and potential are clear, and his ability to step up when needed has been well-documented. The upcoming game against the Packers in Week 15 will be a significant test for Willis and the Dolphins, as they look to establish themselves in the NFL. The Dolphins' decision to invest in Willis and their commitment to rebuilding indicate a strong belief in his abilities and a desire to build a competitive team. As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see how Willis and the Dolphins fare, and whether he can live up to the high expectations that come with such a substantial investment.
