Dolphins reportedly still 'in' on Malik Willis

There are growing reports that the Miami Dolphins are prepared to release Tua Tagovailoa as a post-June 1 cut, which would cut the $99.2 million he is owed over the next two years. 

While taking a $55 million cap hit in 2026 all but damages the team's chances at being players in free agency, a new report indicates that the Dolphins are still "in" on trying to sign Malik Willis.

Willis continues to also receive reports that his asking price could be something near the $30 million range. That number appears to be inflated, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

"Willis' market has been a prominent topic this week. But a team offering him $30-plus million per year doesn't appear realistic. Many front offices believe the more accurate comp is Justin Fields' deal with the Jets last year (two years, $40 million). Could that jump up due to cap inflation and/or multiple suitors? Sure. A range of $20-25 million annually is certainly a good starting point. But Willis hitting the $30 million threshold as a player with six career starts would surprise some of the teams at the combine," Fowler wrote.

The fact that Willis was receiving a projection of $30 million was a bit shocking to see, and the biggest reason for that is his six starts. Fowler indicated that teams he spoke to at the NFL Combine also felt that getting that much on a contract with limited starts would be surprising. 

If Willis does get a deal similar to what Justin Fields received from the New York Jets, which is a two-year, $40 million deal, that would work in favor of the Dolphins. However, it would also lead to much more competition.

Another team that is continually mentioned alongside Willis' is the Arizona Cardinals. Reports have indicated that they are set to release Kyler Murray. If that is the case, expect the Cardinals to be a major player for Willis.

Miami will need to exercise some bigger cap-cutting moves if they are to compete for Willis, and they have already released three players, including wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Linebacker Bradley Chubb is expected to be released as well, but the Dolphins are waiting on a decision to make him a post-June 1 cut as well. 

Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan also indicated that the team is seeking a trade partner for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, and there could be more players on the trade block as well.

Despite Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley indicating that running back De'Von Achane and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle remain foundational players, Sullivan said he would have to listen to all trade offers.

If another team offered some high first-round picks for either Achane or Waddle, that would go a long to stack much-needed draft capital while shedding contracts that could lead to Willis being obtained.

Obviously, there are many variables when considering if the Dolphins can pull off the right situation to land Willis. Nothing is impossible, but a lot of this is improbable.