Malik Willis traded the frigid winters of Green Bay for the boiling hot summers of South Florida. The Miami Dolphins are banking on Willis to either become a legitimate franchise quarterback or at least bridge the gap between now and when they can find one.
Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley both spoke highly of Willis in the weeks leading up to the start of free agency, and when it began, Willis was the first announced signing. Now his former coach is chiming in about his former Jordan Love backup.
LaFleur met with the media on Monday at the owner's meeting in Arizona. He had a lot to say about Miami's new QB.
Matt LaFleur believes Malik Willis will be the Miami Dolphins starter, but success is something else
LaFleur made it clear that he believes in Willis and his athletic ability, but he also knows that any quarterback needs to be surrounded by good players. In Miami, he will have De'Von Achane, and whoever they draft, that's it for the offensive side of the ball.
"But I think, too many times, you get into situations where it can’t be all on the quarterback. You got to surround these guys with pieces. Nobody can do it by themselves."Matt LaFleur
Make no mistake, though, LaFleur likes what Willis brings to the table. When asked about his thoughts on him being brought into the Packers organization two offseasons ago, LaFleur wasted no time talking about how excited he was.
"When GM Brian Gutekunst called and asked if I was interested, I said, ‘Heck yeah,’ because it’s just hard to find a guy that athletic at that position."Matt LaFleur
The Packers' head coach also said that while they could see what he could do with the ball in his hands, they liked the fact he was "receptive to the coaching." In his limited play time, Willis looked good enough that he was the top QB in this year's draft. "Certainly excited about his opportunity in Miami, and we’re definitely missing him," LaFleur added.
Willis will get a full offseason with Bobby Slowik as he learns the playbook. Expectations for the season are not high, but it will be interesting to watch as Willis progresses as a quarterback and a leader.