The Green Bay Packers have addressed their backup quarterback situation by acquiring Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. Willis, the Titans' third-round pick in 2022, provides the Packers with a young signal-caller with NFL game experience.
The Green Bay Packers have made a strategic move to bolster their backup quarterback position with the acquisition of Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans. In exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick, the Packers have added a quarterback with NFL game experience to their depth chart behind Jordan Love.
Willis, a former standout at Liberty, was selected by the Titans in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite his high draft status, Willis's rookie season was marked by inconsistent play, starting three games and completing only 53.0% of his passes for 350 yards and three interceptions. However, his mobility, evident in his 32 rushing attempts for 144 yards and a touchdown, offers the Packers an additional dimension in their passing attack.
The Packers' previous backup quarterbacks, Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt, had not played any competitive NFL games. Willis's addition brings a level of experience to the Packers' quarterback room that will be invaluable in case of an injury to starter Jordan Love.
Willis's fall in the 2022 draft, from a once-highly touted prospect to a third-round selection, has raised questions about his potential. However, the Packers' front office clearly believes in his upside, considering him a developmental prospect with the tools to succeed in Matt LaFleur's offense.
LaFleur's offensive scheme relies on a mobile quarterback, and Willis's athleticism and rushing ability could complement the Packers' running game. The Packers have struggled to find a reliable backup quarterback since the departure of Aaron Rodgers, and Willis has the potential to fill that void.
Willis's arrival also signals a shift in the Packers' quarterback depth chart. With Willis now on the roster, Clifford and Pratt could be relegated to third and fourth-string roles, respectively.
The Packers open their season next Friday against the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil. Willis's presence provides the Packers with a safety net behind Love, ensuring that they have a capable backup in case of any unexpected circumstances.
Overall, the Packers' acquisition of Malik Willis is a strategic move that addresses a key need on their roster. Willis brings NFL game experience and athleticism to the Packers, providing them with a promising backup quarterback who could develop into a valuable asset in the future.
