The Miami Dolphins begin the 2026 season in the midst of a significant rebuilding effort, with change evident throughout the organization. A new coaching staff, roster turnover, and a different direction at quarterback have reshaped expectations as the franchise prepares for training camp.
One of the biggest offseason moves came when Miami signed quarterback Malik Willis to a contract worth $67.5 million, signaling confidence that he can guide the team through its transition. Although the deal has largely been viewed as a bridge solution, some observers believe Willis has the opportunity to establish himself as much more than a temporary starter.
That optimism stems from Willis’ encouraging performances during the 2025 season while filling in for Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love. In limited action, the athletic signal-caller displayed improved decision-making, efficient passing, and the dual-threat ability that originally made him an intriguing NFL prospect.
As training camp approaches, Willis has received another vote of confidence. A recent quarterback ranking placed him alongside several of the league’s promising young passers, suggesting that his future may be brighter than many expected when he first arrived in Miami.
1. Analyst Sees Willis as a Rising Starter
In a recent evaluation of NFL quarterbacks, CBS Sports analyst Bryan DeArdo grouped Willis among a collection of players he considers “promising prospects.” The ranking placed the Dolphins quarterback in the same tier as Jaxson Dart, Tyler Shough, and Cam Ward.
Although Willis was not included among the league’s established stars, the placement represented a notable endorsement of his long-term potential. Based on the overall rankings, he projects somewhere just outside the NFL’s upper tier of starting quarterbacks while still possessing room for significant growth.
DeArdo pointed to Willis’ resurgence in Green Bay as a major reason for the improved outlook. After facing uncertainty earlier in his career, the quarterback demonstrated meaningful progress whenever he stepped into the lineup during the 2025 campaign.
The analyst also acknowledged that Miami presents a much different challenge. Rather than joining an established contender, Willis now takes over a team beginning a new era, where expectations and responsibilities will be considerably greater.
2. Strong 2025 Performance Created New Momentum
Willis revived his career by making the most of limited opportunities with the Packers last season. Filling in for Jordan Love, he appeared in four games and delivered efficient performances that attracted attention throughout the league.
He completed the season with 422 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and no interceptions, demonstrating improved ball security and decision-making. Those numbers reflected a quarterback who had become more comfortable operating within an NFL offense.
His mobility also remained an important part of his game. Willis rushed 22 times for 123 yards and added two touchdowns on the ground, reminding teams that his athleticism can create additional challenges for opposing defenses.
That balanced production helped convince Miami that he deserved another opportunity to compete for a starting position. The Dolphins hope those encouraging performances can translate into sustained success over an entire season rather than a handful of appearances.
3. Bigger Opportunity Brings Bigger Challenges
Willis enters training camp as the favorite to win Miami’s starting quarterback job, giving him the clearest path to a full-time role since entering the NFL. For the first time, he is expected to lead an offense from the opening week of the season.
The challenge, however, extends beyond his own development. Miami’s rebuilding roster presents obstacles that could make immediate success difficult, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.
Running back De’Von Achane is expected to serve as one of the offense’s primary playmakers, but the Dolphins’ receiving corps lacks the proven depth found on many other NFL teams. That could place additional pressure on Willis to create offense through both his arm and his legs.
Even with those concerns, the upcoming season represents an important opportunity for the 27-year-old quarterback. If he can build on last year’s progress while helping Miami remain competitive, Willis could strengthen his case as more than a short-term solution and establish himself as the franchise’s long-term answer at quarterback.