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Malik Willis’ Free-Agent Price Climbs Past $30 Million as Dolphins Gauge Their Flexibility

Combine buzz points to a bidding race for the Packers backup, forcing quarterback-needy teams to weigh cap constraints against upside.

Overview

  • Multiple reports say teams now expect Willis to command at least $30 million annually, with some insider projections ranging as high as the mid‑$30 millions and even $42 million.
  • New Dolphins GM Jon‑Eric Sullivan confirmed Miami has discussed Willis and called finances an uphill climb, citing a tight budget, more than 30 pending FAs and limited room to spend.
  • Cap realities tied to Tua Tagovailoa’s contract complicate a Miami pursuit, with figures cited in coverage including a $54 million 2026 charge and sizable trade or release dead‑cap scenarios.
  • A thin quarterback market is boosting Willis’ leverage after an efficient Green Bay sample (11 games, 972 passing yards, six TDs, zero INTs, plus 261 rushing yards and three scores).
  • Analysts and reports list the Jets, Browns, Cardinals, Dolphins and others as potential suitors, and some Miami coverage suggests the team may avoid a bidding war and pivot to Geno Smith when the tampering window opens March 9.