On the same day that the [Miami Dolphins parted ways with 2020 first-round draft pick Tua Tagovailoa](/nfl-free-agency/116143/miami-dolphins-tua-released-free-agency-2026-rumors-updates-news), Jon Eric-Sullivan and Jeff Hafley turned their attention to free agency to get the team’s next QB1 – and it’s a player that both men have had a front-row seat for over the last few years together in Green Bay.
In a move that surprised absolutely no one – except maybe Dolphins fans who thought it was impossible to sign players this free agency period and the Arizona Cardinals – [the team signed free agent QB Malik Willis to be the team’s next starting quarterback](/nfl-free-agency/116197/malik-willis-miami-dolphins-free-agency-2026-updates-rumors-legal-tampering-tua-tagovailoa).
Willis’ deal is worth three years and up to $67.5M, with $45M fully guaranteed, which is a #good deal if things work out for Miami.
Unfortunately, as history has shown, there is no exact science. But there is, however, good old-fashioned film. And when watching the film, I can’t help but feel that things are already looking up for the Dolphins — even if I know that the curse of the Tequesta is lingering in the shadows.
Now, I know, I know, I was wrong about Tua Tagovailoa. I also shed some tears when Miami drafted Ryan Tannehill, but the team’s drought of having a legit franchise quarterback felt never-ending at the time. Nevertheless, I completely understand why you may not want to listen to me.
But as I said, check out the film, and you will see.
_(Please Note: I can not monetize this video. I made it so fans can see what Willis did in 2025.)_
Last year with the Green Bay Packers, Willis completed 30 of 35 passes (85.7%) for 422 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. He also carried the ball 22 times for 123 yards and two touchdowns. In total, Willis has started 6 games during his career, but now looks to become _the guy_ in Miami.
As someone who liked Willis during the draft — as many others did — it seemed obvious to bring in a 26-year-old QB **IF** those who know best believed he could be the guy. Sully and Hafley think he has the potential to be a franchise-altering player.
_What are your thoughts on the Miami Dolphins swapping Tua Tagovailoa with Malik Willis? How do you think it impacts the rebuild? Do you think he can become the long-term guy in Miami? Let us know in the comments section below!_