The Arizona Cardinals could emerge as a surprising contender in the upcoming quarterback market as speculation grows around Green Bay Packers backup Malik Willis. Reports circulating around the league suggest Arizona may pursue the young quarterback aggressively once free agency begins.
Willis has steadily rebuilt his reputation since arriving in Green Bay, showing flashes of athleticism and playmaking ability that once made him a highly intriguing prospect. His development as a dual-threat quarterback has drawn increasing attention from teams searching for upside at the position.
Green Bay Packers, Malik Willis
Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis warms up before a game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.
Arizona’s interest reportedly stems from the organization’s desire to explore new options at quarterback while reshaping its offense. The Cardinals are believed to view Willis as a player capable of bringing mobility and creativity to the position.
Financial projections surrounding Willis have become a major point of discussion as free agency approaches. Some league observers believe the quarterback could command a contract worth as much as $30 million per year, while others expect the market to settle closer to the range of recent deals for quarterbacks in similar situations.
NBC Sports Names Arizona Cardinals as NFC West Team That Wants Green Bay Packers’ Malik Willis
Green Bay Packers, Malik Willis
Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis (2) surveys the field before being sacked by Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (98) during their game at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024.
The Cardinals have been named as an NFC West team that can get Willis in free agency this year. This is detailed more in a report by Matthew Berry for NBC Sports.
Speaking of Arizona, I heard they want Malik Willis. Said one source to me “Malik Willis to Arizona for $30M – mark it.” We will see if that number ends up being right – I know ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler specifically wrote that he sees Willis more in the Justin Fields last year $20M/yr range. So we will see on the money. But I do think Arizona should be the betting favorite to land Willis. I don’t think Minnesota is in play for him (more on that below) nor do I think Miami is a destination for Willis. The Dolphins are just too cash-strapped and won’t be able to afford Willis in what should be a robust market for the Green Bay backup.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the exact numbers, Arizona is widely viewed as one of the most logical landing spots for Willis. The Cardinals have the financial flexibility to pursue a major move, and their current roster situation could create an opportunity for a new signal caller to step into a meaningful role.
As the offseason unfolds, Willis’ future will remain one of the more intriguing quarterback storylines across the NFL. Whether he ultimately lands in Arizona or elsewhere, his next contract could mark a significant turning point in his professional career.
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