Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis has a lot on his plate as the 2026 season approaches. Can he live up to or even succeed expectations?
The Miami Dolphins are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, and the 2026 season is shaping up to be a challenging one on the field, especially for Malik Willis. Willis was brought in to be the team's potential franchise answer, but the torn-down roster will present some challenges for his first year as a starter.
Dolphins general manager Jon Eric-Sullivan and head coach Jeff Hafley knew what they were getting themselves into. Nonetheless, they are doing their best to build the best possible team this season, and that will certainly be the case for years to come.
The plan for the Dolphins is what is to come beyond 2026. No one is expecting anything out of the Dolphins this fall, but Willis will have to do his best with what he is given.
Willis was already seen putting in work with some members of the Dolphins, like wide receiver Jalen Tolbert.
Willis is doing all he can to prepare for the 2026 season. He is set to be the starting quarterback for the Dolphins and will get his first crack as a starter from the beginning of the season to the end.
While this will be a phenomenal chance for Willis to prove himself, the 2026 season may not be the best chance for him to showcase his full skill set.
Things look bleak for the Dolphins, but especially on the offensive side. As things stand, Miami has some serious issues regarding its offensive line and skill positions, like wide receiver.
When it comes to the pass catcher department, specifically wide receivers, the Dolphins don't have much to work with. According to Ourlads.com, that room consists of Tolbert, Tutu Atwell, Malik Washington, and Tahj Washington.
That group lacks a proven, high-end production route runner, which could make things difficult for the Dolphins’ offense — especially for Willis as he steps into a full-time starting role for the first team in his career.
Given the money he's receiving, there are some sort of expectations for the 26-year-old. Willis will earn $23.5 million guaranteed this season, and then has $21.5 million fully guaranteed in 2027.
The Dolphins hold the No. 11 overall pick in this year's draft, and there are a ton of position needs they must address. Wide receiver is one of them, but Miami could also use some help on the offensive line.
One way or another, Willis will have to prove that he can make things work with not much going on with the offense. However, the Dolphins' front office could provide some immediate help if they choose to go the offensive route with the 11th overall pick.