The Green Bay Packers are reportedly poised to allow backup quarterback Malik Willis to enter free agency following his impressive performances during a limited number of games this season. The team has consistently favored Jordan Love as their starting quarterback, which has led to this decision.
During a recent discussion on “The Dan Patrick Show,” former NFL quarterback and analyst Chris Simms expressed a surprising perspective on Willis”s potential compared to Love”s when he was drafted in the first round by the Packers in 2020. Simms indicated that the competition between the two is closer than he initially anticipated. “It”s closer than I ever thought it would be,” Simms remarked, as reported by Brendon Kleen of Awful Announcing. “And I”m really a Jordan Love fan … but Malik Willis, I”m not going to say he”s better than Jordan Love right now. I will say he shows more potential to be a greater player than Jordan Love.” Simms emphasized the need for further observation before making a definitive comparison.
Willis, who was a third-round draft pick in 2022, has only started six games in the regular season thus far. Nevertheless, statistics from Pro Football Reference reveal that in his last two appearances with the Packers, he completed 27 out of 32 passes for 409 yards, securing two touchdowns without any interceptions. Additionally, he rushed for 104 yards and two touchdowns in those games.
Recent reports have suggested that teams like the Cleveland Browns and Miami Dolphins are potential candidates for Willis should he become available. Simms believes that any franchise seeking a long-term solution at quarterback should seriously consider investing in Willis when the new league year begins on March 11.
Simms further declared, “I think Malik Willis is a superstar.” He positioned Willis as a standout option among free agents this season, citing his remarkable talent, which includes a strong arm and impressive mobility. “He knows how to run the offense and do all of that. So yeah, he”s a great story here,” Simms added.
With Simms” high praise, it seems likely that Willis will receive more than just a one-year “prove it” contract when the free agency period opens next month, assuming at least one team shares Simms” enthusiasm.
