Malik Willis’s path from Roswell High School to the Green Bay Packers is a testament to his talent, determination, and resilience
While his NFL career is still unfolding, his journey thus far offers a compelling narrative of growth and opportunity.
Malik Willis’s contract is a testament to his potential and the Titans’ belief in his abilities.
With structured payments, manageable cap hits, and guaranteed money, it sets the stage for both parties to benefit as Willis develops into a professional quarterback.
As of 2024, Willis’s career trajectory is filled with potential. With the Packers, he has the chance to learn from experienced coaches, develop his skills, and compete at the highest level.
His journey serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and adaptability in achieving success.
Table of Contents
Malik Willis: Who Is He?
The New Quarterback for the Green Bay Packers
American football quarterback Malik Antonio Willis has been a rising name in the NFL.1
As of 2024, he plays for the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant chapter in his professional career.
This article delves into his journey from a high school football standout to an NFL quarterback.
Malik Willis was born and raised in Georgia, where he first showed his talent for football at Roswell High School.
During his senior year, Willis led his team to the Class 7A title game, showcasing his dual-threat ability. His remarkable stats included passing for 2,562 yards and rushing for 1,033 yards, accumulating 37 touchdowns.
His performance caught the attention of college scouts and earned him a commitment to Auburn University.
I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst
John 6:35🙏🏾Never too late He is waiting on you 🫵🏾
— Malik Willis (@malikwillis) December 4, 2024
College Career at Auburn
Willis began his college football journey at Auburn University in 2017. Despite his potential, he found limited opportunities, making only 15 appearances over two seasons.
His role primarily involved serving as a backup quarterback, which constrained his ability to demonstrate his full capabilities on the field. This prompted Willis to seek a transfer, leading him to Liberty University in 2019.
The transfer to Liberty University proved transformative for Willis. Over two seasons, he started 23 games, recording an impressive 17-6 win-loss record.
His stats at Liberty included 377 completions for 5,122 yards, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and reliable quarterback. He also demonstrated his rushing prowess, making him a dual-threat quarterback capable of outmaneuvering defenses.
Malik Willis: Career
Entry into the NFL: Drafted by the Tennessee Titans
Willis declared for the NFL Draft in 2022 and was selected as the 86th overall pick in the third round by the Tennessee Titans.2
His selection highlighted his potential to develop into a formidable NFL quarterback. In his rookie season, he started three games and played in eight, completing 31 of 61 attempted passes for 276 yards.
Willis faced challenges during his time with the Titans. As a rookie, he found himself competing for the starting role while adapting to the professional level’s pace and complexity.
Despite these challenges, Willis showed glimpses of his talent, maintaining a record of 3-2 in the five games he started. However, his inability to throw a touchdown in his first two seasons raised questions about his development trajectory.
Trade to the Green Bay Packers
In 2024, Willis was traded to the Green Bay Packers. This trade marked a new beginning for Willis, giving him the opportunity to reset his career and compete for a more prominent role.
The Packers, known for their storied history and strong fan base, provided an ideal platform for Willis to further refine his skills and make a lasting impact in the NFL.
While Willis’s NFL career is still in its early stages, he has already achieved notable milestones. Completing 64 passes for 730 yards, he has demonstrated growth and resilience.
His 3-2 starting record is a testament to his ability to lead teams under pressure. Although he has yet to throw his first NFL touchdown, Willis’s work ethic and determination suggest that milestone is within reach.
Malik Willis: Playing Style and Strengths
Willis’s playing style is characterized by his mobility and dual-threat capability. His ability to extend plays with his legs and create opportunities for his teammates sets him apart.3
At Liberty, his passing and rushing stats reflected his versatility, a skill set he continues to hone in the NFL.
Additionally, his leadership qualities and composure on the field have earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike.
Despite his talent, Willis faces areas of improvement, particularly in accuracy and decision-making. The transition from college to professional football is often challenging, and Willis is no exception.
His limited experience as a starter in the NFL has exposed gaps in his game, such as reading defenses and executing under pressure. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for his development.
Comparisons to Other Quarterbacks
Willis’s skill set has drawn comparisons to other mobile quarterbacks in the league, such as Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts. Like them, Willis possesses the ability to change games with both his arm and legs.
However, he is still in the process of translating his potential into consistent performance, a journey that requires time, coaching, and experience.
The Green Bay Packers have high hopes for Willis. As a franchise known for its legendary quarterbacks, including Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers, the Packers offer a supportive environment for developing talent.
The coaching staff’s focus on player development aligns with Willis’s needs, making this trade a promising opportunity for both parties.
Fan Reception in Green Bay
Willis’s arrival in Green Bay has sparked excitement among the Packers’ fan base. Known for their passion and loyalty, Packers fans have embraced Willis as a potential future star.
While expectations are high, the fan support provides Willis with an added boost of motivation as he works to establish himself as a key player.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Willis is also recognized for his contributions off the field. He has participated in community outreach programs and engaged with fans, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact. His character and work ethic make him a valuable asset to any team.
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Malik Willis Contract Breakdown
Malik Willis, a quarterback for the Tennessee Titans, has garnered significant attention not just for his performance on the field but also for the details of his contract.
According to Spotrac, Willis’s rookie deal is a four-year agreement worth $5,160,100. Below, we explore the specifics of his contract, annual earnings, and financial impact.
The Basics of Malik Willis’ Contract
Willis signed a four-year contract with the Tennessee Titans in 2022. The deal includes:
- Signing Bonus: $932,800
- Average Annual Salary: $1,290,025
- Guaranteed at Signing: $932,800
- Total Guaranteed: $932,800
This contract reflects the investment the Titans made in Willis, with clear structures for cap hit and base salary across the four years.
Breakdown of Annual Earnings
Here’s a year-by-year analysis of Malik Willis’s financials:
- 2022 (Age 23):
- Cap Hit: $938,200
- Annual Cash: $1,637,800 (includes signing bonus prorated)
- Cumulative Cash: $1,637,800
- Dead Cap: $932,800
- 2023 (Age 24):
- Cap Hit: $1,172,750
- Annual Cash: $939,550
- Cumulative Cash: $2,577,350
- Dead Cap: $699,600
- 2024 (Age 25):
- Cap Hit: $1,174,100
- Annual Cash: $1,174,100
- Cumulative Cash: $3,751,450
- Dead Cap: None
- 2025 (Age 26):
- Cap Hit: $1,408,650
- Annual Cash: $1,408,650
- Cumulative Cash: $5,160,100
- Dead Cap: None
By the end of the 2025 season, Willis will become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) unless an extension or new agreement is reached.
How Much is Malik Willis Getting Paid?
Malik Willis earns an average annual salary of $1.29 million. Here are a few key financial milestones from his contract:
- Rookie Year (2022): Base salary of $705,000.
- Highest Base Salary (2024): $1.17 million.
In 2024, Willis’s base salary represents the highest annual payment he will receive during his rookie contract, according to Spotrac.
How Much Does Malik Willis Make Per Minute?
To understand Willis’s earnings in granular detail, let’s calculate how much he makes per minute. With an annual average salary of $1.29 million:
- Per Year: $1,290,025
- Per Day (365 days): Approximately $3,534
- Per Hour: Around $147
- Per Minute: About $1.8
This calculation shows that Willis’s earnings, even broken down into minute-by-minute increments, reflect the financial rewards of being an NFL quarterback.
Signing Bonus and Cap Hit
The signing bonus plays a critical role in understanding Willis’s contract structure. Here’s a closer look:
- Signing Bonus: $932,800 was paid upfront at the time of signing.
- Cap Hit in 2024: $1,174,100, a reflection of the prorated signing bonus and base salary combined.
The cap hit aligns with the Titans’ salary cap management strategy, ensuring flexibility while securing Willis’s services.
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Career Earnings to Date
As of 2023, Malik Willis has accumulated $3.94 million in career earnings. This total includes his base salaries, prorated signing bonus, and other cash payouts. With two more years remaining on his contract, his total earnings by 2025 will reach $5.16 million.
When compared to other quarterbacks drafted in the same year, Willis’s contract falls within a competitive range.
As a third-round pick, his total contract value and guarantees are lower than first-round quarterbacks but still reflective of his potential value to the Titans.
The Business of Being a Rookie Quarterback
Rookie contracts like Malik Willis’s are governed by the NFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Key points include:
- Predetermined Salaries: Rookie contracts are largely dictated by draft position.
- Four-Year Duration: Most rookie deals span four years, with an option for a fifth year for first-round picks.
- Signing Bonuses: Paid upfront but prorated over the contract for salary cap purposes.
Willis’s contract adheres to these norms, highlighting the structured approach the NFL takes with rookie signings.
