The Miami Dolphins agreed to a deal with free-agent quarterback Malik Willis on Monday, hours after announcing they would part ways with Tua Tagovailoa following six seasons with the team.

Willis, who played college football for the Liberty Flames, was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the third round, 86th overall, of the 2022 NFL Draft.[1][2] He joined the Titans as a backup to Ryan Tannehill and later competed with Will Levis for playing time.

In 2024, Willis signed with the Green Bay Packers, joining their practice squad on November 26.[3][4] He served as a backup to Jordan Love during his time with the Packers.

Tagovailoa was chosen by the Dolphins with the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.[2][5] Prior to the 2024 season, he signed a four-year contract extension with Miami on July 29, 2024.[6]

Willis now has an opportunity to compete for the starting quarterback role with the Dolphins.

Sources

1. Publisher/Organization name: NFL.com
   Article/page title: 2022 NFL Draft Tracker
   Publication date: April 29, 2022
   Direct URL: https://www.nfl.com/draft/tracker/all/2022
2. Publisher/Organization name: Pro-Football-Reference
   Article/page title: Malik Willis
   Publication date: Accessed January 2026
   Direct URL: https://www.profootballreference.com/players/W/WilliMa03.htm
3. Publisher/Organization name: Green Bay Packers
   Article/page title: Packers sign QB Malik Willis to practice squad
   Publication date: November 26, 2024
   Direct URL: https://www.packers.com/news/packers-sign-qb-malik-willis-to-practice-squad
4. Publisher/Organization name: ESPN
   Article/page title: Packers add ex-Titans QB Malik Willis to practice squad
   Publication date: November 26, 2024
   Direct URL: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/42473779/packers-add-ex-titans-qb-malik-willis-practice-squad
5. Publisher/Organization name: Pro-Football-Reference
   Article/page title: Tua Tagovailoa
   Publication date: Accessed January 2026
   Direct URL: https://www.profootballreference.com/players/T/TagovTua00.htm