MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Miami Dolphins have told quarterback Malik Willis to concentrate on learning a new scheme and re‑acquainting himself with fundamentals as the team begins a rebuild under general manager Jon‑Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley. The club entered Phase 3 of its offseason program this week, with practices focused on installing the new system and building chemistry.
Miami’s offense is almost completely rebuilt from a season ago, including at the game’s most important position. Willis signed a three‑year, $67.5 million contract this offseason after the Dolphins decided to commit to him as their franchise quarterback.
Hafley said he does not want Willis to “overdo the whole leadership thing” while the staff is installing its standards. “My main focus for him right now is to learn the scheme, get to know the players and not overdo the whole leadership thing,” Hafley said. “I mean, I think that’s my job and [the coaches’] job right now, so he can focus on becoming the best quarterback and the best player and the best teammate he can be.”
Willis was ESPN’s top‑ranked free agent this offseason, according to ESPN. His limited work in Green Bay last season included two electric appearances in Weeks 16 and 17: he completed 9 of 11 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown and added 44 rushing yards in an overtime loss to the Chicago Bears, then completed 18 of 21 passes for 288 yards and a touchdown with another 60 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns in a loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik praised Willis’ physical tools and personality. “He’s tough, but honestly, what I’ve enjoyed the most so far is getting to know him. The person is really fun to be around. He’s really energetic,” Slowik said. He added that the team is in the early stages of scheme work and is prioritizing fundamentals.
Willis called his experience in Miami “a blessing” and said he is focused on building relationships. He even treated his offensive line to dinner. On leadership, Willis said it must be earned: “It’s about building trust … I don’t think you just put somebody in a position to say, ‘Okay, you’re the leader now.’ You got to earn that.”
