The Packers traded a 2025 seventh-round pick to the Tennessee Titans for Malik Willis. Willis will now serve as Jordan Love’s backup.
The Packers may have been motivated by concerns over their quarterback depth to start the year. Michael Pratt and Sean Clifford struggled during the preseason. With these performances, Green Bay needed a more experienced backup.
Malik Willis had a solid preseason, going 20-of-27 for 205 yards, two TDs, and one INT. He was 5-of-6 for 77 yards and two TDs against the blitz, and 2-of-2 for 58 yards on deep throws. Additionally, he rushed for 101 yards on 11 attempts.
According to the NFL Mock Draft Database, Malik Willis was the top quarterback and 14th overall prospect in 2022. Drafted by the Titans in the third round, Willis struggled to gain momentum. While he has flashed potential as a runner, his passing remains below average.
Willis could aid the Packers’ defense in practice by mimicking dual-threat quarterbacks they’ll face this season. Green Bay plays Jalen Hurts and Anthony Richardson in the first two weeks. Additionally, they face Kyler Murray in Week 6. Historically, Green Bay has struggled against mobile QBs. With championship aspirations for 2024, they need to address this Achilles’ heel. Willis’s skills can help prepare the defense for upcoming challenges.
Malik Willis will work with Tom Clements, a key contributor to the Packers’ quarterback success over three decades. Under Clements’ coaching, Willis could develop his passing skills while leveraging his running abilities. This combination could make Willis an effective, if average, passer with strong mobility.
Currently, Willis is not an upgrade over Clifford and Pratt. However, his presence offers two quarterback playing styles for practice. This variety can enhance the defense’s preparation against different types of opponents.
Personally, Willis’s signing seems aimed more at challenging the defense with a different playing style than just backing up Love. Ideally, Willis won’t see the field. However, if he does play, Green Bay hopes Clements’ coaching will help him contribute and keep the team competitive.
In the best-case scenario, the Packers secure an early first-round bye, giving Willis regular season playing time. This opportunity could raise Willis’s stock, potentially leading to another roster spot elsewhere. Consequently, Green Bay might gain a draft pick from the trade.
Packers fans should not worry too much about the backup QB position. Last year’s backup likely won’t make the team this season. Regardless, Matt LaFleur and the coaching staff will do their best to ensure Jordan Love is well-protected and kept out of harm’s way.
