Former Packers Star Says He’ll Always Be Part of Green Bay — Hopes to Retire as a Packer One Day

Miami, Florida – March 15, 2026 – Former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis has officially begun a new chapter in his career after signing a major deal with the Miami Dolphins. But before fully turning the page, Willis delivered an emotional farewell message to Green Bay — and revealed the difficult reality that ultimately pushed him to move on. Willis recently agreed to a three-year contract worth $67.5 million with Miami, a deal that includes $45 million guaranteed and two void years designed to give the Dolphins salary cap flexibility. The contract averages about $22.5 million per year, with Willis receiving roughly $23.5 million in cash during the 2026 season, largely through a signing bonus of about $22.5 million. While the deal signals Miami’s belief that Willis could develop into a potential starting quarterback, the move also marks the end of his time in Green Bay — a place he says will always hold a special place in his heart. "Green Bay WILL ALWAYS BE SPECIAL TO ME. Packers FANS WELCOMED ME FROM THE VERY FIRST DAY I STEPPED INTO THAT LOCKER ROOM. EVERY TIME I PUT ON THAT JERSEY, I GAVE EVERYTHING I HAD. I'LL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL FOR THE LOVE FROM THIS CITY, THE ENERGY AT LAMBEAU, AND THE MEMORIES WE CREATED TOGETHER." However, Willis admitted that the presence of franchise quarterback Jordan Love made it difficult for him to see a long-term future in Green Bay. “If I stayed there, I would always be his shadow,” Willis said when discussing his decision. “Jordan is an incredible quarterback and a true leader of that team. I respect him a lot, but I also knew I needed a place where I could chase my own path and prove what I can do.” Willis spent his time with the Packers primarily as a backup quarterback, providing depth behind Love while learning within Green Bay’s system. Despite limited opportunities on the field, teammates and coaches consistently praised his work ethic and professionalism inside the locker room. Now, Miami is offering him the opportunity he had been waiting for — a real chance to compete for a starting role. The structure of Willis’ contract reflects that belief. His 2026 salary of $1.25 million and his $21.5 million salary in 2027 are fully guaranteed, while the Dolphins maintain flexibility with the 2028 season worth $20.5 million and a $2 million roster bonus if he remains on the team by March of that year. For Willis, the move is more than just a contract. It represents the chance to step out of the shadow of one of the NFL’s rising stars and build his own legacy. Still, his farewell message made one thing clear — Green Bay will always remain part of his story. And while the Dolphins may now hold the next chapter of his career, Packers fans will remember the quarterback who left with gratitude, humility, and a quiet understanding that sometimes in the NFL, opportunity simply lies somewhere else.