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Malik Willis’ Efficient Cameo Boosts 2026 Starter Buzz as Shoulder Injury Adds Uncertainty

Analysts credit Matt LaFleur’s coaching for turning the former Titans backup into a viable option.

Overview

  • Replacing Jordan Love against the Bears, Willis went 9-of-11 for 121 yards with a touchdown and a 142.8 passer rating, plus 44 rushing yards.
  • Film review highlighted improved processing and progression reads, including a third-read touchdown to Romeo Doubs and a key overtime strike to Jayden Reed.
  • Matt LaFleur praised Willis’ poise and playmaking, saying he “did a hell of a job” with both his arm and legs.
  • Willis suffered a shoulder injury in the Bears game, creating short‑term uncertainty about additional snaps this season.
  • He will enter free agency when the new league year begins, with commentators projecting interest from QB-needy teams in a thin market and floating examples such as Cleveland, Kansas City, and Minnesota as speculative fits.