With Jordan Love in concussion protocol, Green Bay Packers’ backup quarterback Malik Willis got the nod to start the Week 17 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
While he has played well in spot starts before, few were expecting the performance he delivered tonight, driving the Packers’ offense up and down the field with both his arm and legs.
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NFL World in Shock After Malik Willis Dazzles in Week 17
After falling into a 7-0 hole after the Ravens’ opening drive, Willis didn’t take long to fire back with an answer of his own. He completed two passes for 79 yards and a touchdown to wide receiver Christian Watson as Green Bay tied the game.
A stop on fourth and inches and a fumbled snap saw Baltimore extend their lead to 20-7, but Willis was able to refocus the offense and drive down the field before scoring a 22-yard rushing touchdown. Heading into the Packers’ second drive of the second half, Willis had completed 12 of 13 passes for 195 yards and a touchdown. He’s also rushed the ball six times for 34 yards.
His teammate, linebacker Micah Parsons, shouted out Willis’ impressive performance on X, saying, “Malik is legit, bruh,” with two fire emojis.
Malik is legit bruh 🔥🔥
— Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) December 28, 2025
Cleveland Browns Radio Network play-by-play announcer Andrew Siciliano echoed some words shared by Packers running back Josh Jacobs pregame when asked about Willis’ talent, posting, “Malik Willis may make a few bucks in free agency next March.”
Malik Willis may make a few bucks in free agency next March.
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) December 28, 2025
With some franchises struggling with their play under center, FS1’s Danny Parkins agreed with Siciliano, explaining, “Malik Willis is one of the 32 best quarterbacks on earth. I hope a team gives him a shot to win a job next year.”
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While some have pointed out it can be easier for backups as the opposing team doesn’t gameplan for them, Willis’ ball placement and ability to extend plays have shone tonight.
Malik Willis is one of the 32 best Quarterbacks on earth. I hope a team gives him a shot to win a job next year.
— Danny Parkins (@DannyParkins) December 28, 2025
Former Packers WR and Super Bowl 45 winner James Jones also chimed in on Willis’ big night, posting, “Money Making Malik 💸 #Packers.”
Interestingly enough, Jones found himself on the receiving end of another massive Packers backup QB performance when he caught six passes for 89 yards from Matt Flynn’s six-touchdown masterpiece in Week 17 of the 2012 season.
Money Making Malik 💸 #Packers
— James Jones (@89JonesNTAF) December 28, 2025
Flynn would eventually sign a three-year, $20.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks in the 2012 offseason, but would wind up losing the job to 2012 third-round pick Russell Wilson.
Willis has looked great in the games he’s had to play this season for the Packers and should see it result in a hefty raise as he heads into free agency this offseason.
