Steelers Linked to $40 Million Quarterback Amid Rodgers Uncertainty

IMAGE: Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy (left) speaks at a press conference introducing him as the next head coach of the Steelers as general manager Omar Khan (right) listens in at PNC Champions Club at Acrisure Stadium.. / Charles LeClaire / Imagn Images

The quarterback carousel is already starting to spin ahead of the 2026 NFL season, and three AFC teams-the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, and Miami Dolphins-could be in the thick of the action as they evaluate their options under center. With uncertainty swirling around their current quarterback situations, all three franchises are reportedly eyeing one of the most intriguing names set to hit the open market: Malik Willis.

Yes, that Malik Willis.

Once written off as a bust after a rocky stint with the Tennessee Titans, Willis has quietly rebuilt his NFL career over the last two seasons in Green Bay. Now, at 26, he’s poised to cash in-potentially commanding a deal in the range of Justin Fields’ recent two-year, $40 million contract, which included $30 million guaranteed.

According to league sources, including NFL insider Jason La Canfora, the Steelers, Browns, and Dolphins are all showing interest in the former third-round pick. And based on early chatter, the Browns may be emerging as the front-runners.

Let’s break down why these three teams are in the mix-and what Willis could bring to each.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Waiting on Rodgers, But Watching Willis

The Steelers are in quarterback limbo. They’re still waiting to hear whether Aaron Rodgers will suit up in black and gold for another season. If he doesn’t, Pittsburgh will almost certainly look to bring in a veteran-because at this point, Will Howard remains a developmental project, and Mason Rudolph hasn’t shown he can carry a team as a full-time starter.

Enter Willis. If Rodgers retires or walks away, Willis could be a compelling option.

Not only would he give Pittsburgh a viable starter for 2026, but he might also finally represent the long-term answer the franchise has been searching for since Ben Roethlisberger retired. And with the Steelers coming off a playoff appearance, this is a team that’s built to win now.

That makes Pittsburgh arguably the best “win-now” destination among the three.

Cleveland Browns: New Coach, New Quarterback?

Deshaun Watson is still under contract, and the Browns also have young Shedeur Sanders in the building. But with new head coach Todd Monken taking over, there’s a real chance Cleveland could look to shake things up at quarterback.

Monken’s arrival signals a potential philosophical shift, and if he doesn’t see Watson-or Sanders-as the right fit for his offense, the Browns could be in the market for a more dynamic option. Willis, with his mobility and arm talent, might check that box.

La Canfora reports that Cleveland is currently viewed by some around the league as the favorite to land Willis. An anonymous general manager echoed that sentiment, while also naming Miami as another strong contender.

Miami Dolphins: A Familiar Connection

Of the three teams, the Dolphins may have the strongest organizational ties to Willis. Their new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, and head coach, Jeff Hafley, both came over from Green Bay-where Willis has spent the last two seasons revitalizing his career. That familiarity could go a long way.

Then there’s the situation with Tua Tagovailoa. Miami is reportedly exploring trade options for their current starter, and Tua himself has acknowledged he might be open to a fresh start elsewhere. If a move does happen, the Dolphins will need a new QB-and Willis would be a logical fit, especially given the front office’s firsthand experience with him.

What’s Next?

Willis’ next destination will be one of the more compelling storylines of the offseason. Each of these three teams presents a different kind of opportunity:

Pittsburgh offers the clearest path to immediate contention-if Rodgers doesn’t return.
Cleveland could offer a fresh start under a new head coach, and possibly a chance to be the guy in a revamped offense.
Miami brings the strongest organizational connection and a system Willis already knows, should they move on from Tua.

Whichever direction this goes, one thing is clear: Malik Willis is no longer just a reclamation project. He’s a legitimate starting option, and several teams are taking notice.