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Dolphins Bet Big on Unproven QB Malik Willis

3/14/2026

43 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Miami Dolphins signed Malik Willis, the quarterback, to a three-year, $67.5 million contract after releasing Tua Tagovailoa.
Willis has six career starts.
The Dolphins' management views him as a potential franchise quarterback.
Analysts view the signing as risky, given the Dolphins' heavy investment in an unproven quarterback.
The outcome depends on Willis' performance over a full season.

History

Historical Context

The NFL expanded to 30 teams in 1993, driven by a lucrative collective bargaining agreement that increased player salaries and contract lengths. Notably, the Dallas Cowboys signed quarterback Troy Aikman for $50 million over six years. This trend continues today, as teams like the Miami Dolphins invest heavily in franchise quarterbacks, reflecting the league's financial growth and evolving strategies in player management.

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Story summary

The Miami Dolphins signed Malik Willis, the quarterback, to a three-year, $67.5 million contract after releasing Tua Tagovailoa.
Willis has six career starts.
The Dolphins' management views him as a potential franchise quarterback.
Analysts view the signing as risky, given the Dolphins' heavy investment in an unproven quarterback.
The outcome depends on Willis' performance over a full season.

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