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DeutschWhile they’ve released two Pro Bowl players, the Miami Dolphins are still in what’s commonly described as salary cap hell. Miami is nearly $6 million over the salary cap for 2026. There are avenues to clear more space, and the Dolphins will have to examine them in the next week or so.
Once the Dolphins do clear a bit more space, they’re expected to be in on one of the top players in NFL free agency.
According to ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the Dolphins are “definitely in” on signing upcoming free agent quarterback Malik Willis.
“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. Expect at least two and possibly several teams to be involved on Willis. ‘Miami is definitely in,’ a source said. Arizona is combing the market, too, but it doesn’t seem likely that Willis will end up in Cleveland.”
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Malik Willis
Some recent speculation has suggested Willis could land a contract in the Justin Fields range. However, some believe Willis’ market could exceed that, to the likes of a $30 million annual salary. Yet, not everyone is a believer.
Meanwhile, some, like Kurt Warner, are extremely skeptical of Willis’ upside, citing just 28 dropbacks in the past two seasons.
Took a break from draft prep to dive into #MalikWillis tape over last couple of years, being that he is one of hottest names as we head into Free Agency!
— Kurt Warner (@kurt13warner) March 3, 2026
My conclusion is that there is really 28 dropbacks (I took out screens, quick pick-n-stick throws at 5 yrds & quick…
No matter what, teams will be willing to take a chance on Willis becoming a star QB. The question is, how strong of a market will he have? And how high will those prices go?
Willis is one of the most interesting free agents available this offseason. Some teams think he can become a star. Others will be afraid to commit to a 26-year-old QB with just six NFL starts to his name.
Related: Miami Dolphins Expected to Release Expensive Pro Bowl Player
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