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Dolphins Bet Big on Malik Willis, Release Tua

3/14/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Miami Dolphins signed Malik Willis (former Green Bay Packers quarterback) to a three-year, $67.5 million contract after releasing Tua Tagovailoa.
Willis has six NFL starts, and Quincy Avery, Willis's former coach, predicts he will excel as a passer and running threat.
Analysts caution the move is high risk, with $149.2 million in quarterback expenses over two years, including Tagovailoa dead money.

History

Historical Context

The NFL implemented a rookie wage scale in 2011, capping contracts for first-round picks and reshaping team spending strategies. This change allowed teams like the Green Bay Packers to invest heavily in quarterbacks, exemplified by Aaron Rodgers' $134 million extension. The Miami Dolphins' recent $67.5 million signing of Malik Willis reflects a trend of high-risk quarterback investments that could redefine team dynamics in the league.

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Story summary

The Miami Dolphins signed Malik Willis (former Green Bay Packers quarterback) to a three-year, $67.5 million contract after releasing Tua Tagovailoa.
Willis has six NFL starts, and Quincy Avery, Willis's former coach, predicts he will excel as a passer and running threat.
Analysts caution the move is high risk, with $149.2 million in quarterback expenses over two years, including Tagovailoa dead money.

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