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Malik Willis signs $67.5M deal with Dolphins after Tua release

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The Miami Dolphins have signed former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract, effectively ending Tua Tagovailoa's era in Miami. The move comes just hours after the team announced Tagovailoa's release, signaling a dramatic shift in direction for the franchise. Willis, who reunited with first-year general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley in Miami, will likely serve as the Dolphins' starting quarterback for the 2026 season.

Willis brings a dynamic dual-threat ability that Miami's offense has lacked in recent years. During his three starts with the Packers in 2024, he threw for 612 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, adding 174 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. His familiarity with Sullivan and Hafley, who coached him in Green Bay, provides the Dolphins with a known commodity as they rebuild their quarterback room. The team still plans to draft a quarterback this year but will likely focus on developmental prospects rather than high picks.

For the Packers, Willis' departure creates a significant void at backup quarterback. General manager Brian Gutekunst has indicated the team will explore both free agency and the draft to fill the position, with Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord currently on the roster. The Dolphins, meanwhile, must now address other offensive needs including wide receiver depth and offensive line help to support their new quarterback.