Malik Willis $30 million contract value called ‘crazy’ by Hall of Fame QB originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Green Bay Packers turned Malik Willis into a free agent quarterback who will make a lot of money.
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But with the rumors of Willis potentially landing a contract for $25 million or $30 million per year, people are taking notice.
One of those people is Hall of Fame QB Kurt Warner. And Warner thinks the potential cost is “crazy” given what is known about Willis so far.
“Took a break from draft prep to dive into #MalikWillis tape over last couple of years, being that he is one of hottest names as we head into Free Agency!” Warner wrote on X. “My conclusion is that there is really 28 dropbacks (I took out screens, quick pick-n-stick throws at 5 yrds & quick scrambles) over last 2 years that will determine his future! That is crazy to think about if we are talking $25-30mil/year! #StudyBall coming so you can come up with your own opinions & assessment!”
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On the one hand, Warner is right.
Willis struggled with the Titans and only found his way with the Packers while operating as an occasional fill-in for Jordan Love. There isn’t a huge sample size here.
On the other hand, it’s not fair to Willis to say he’s being evaluated just on his basic dropbacks. Given his talent as a runner, Willis has to be examined on the full package. Whoever signs him will be doing so to let him be a dual threat, not just a dropback passer.
At the end of the day, it also doesn’t matter much how Warner feels. Multiple teams need a QB, and Willis is the clear best option in free agency. If a bidding war commences, he’s going to end up with quite the payday.
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Maybe it’s crazy. But it’s also the way this offseason is set up to play out, whether Warner likes it or not.
Willis will just have to prove himself, wherever he goes, to make Warner a believer.
