Malik Willis just kicked off the Dolphins’ post-Tua era with a serious statement on Friday night, delivering a performance in the preseason opener that has everyone buzzing. This wasn’t some quiet walk-on; Willis engineered a 14-play touchdown drive that immediately put his stamp on the game. He completed four of five passes for 45 yards and added nine rushing yards on two attempts, showing off that dual-threat ability we all love to see.
Hafley Dishes High Praise for Willis’s Composure and Leadership
Coach Jeff Hafley wasn’t holding back his excitement for the team’s new starter after the game. He told reporters Willis was “extremely composed and very accurate,” which, let’s be real, is exactly what you want to hear from your QB1 after a performance like that. Hafley also saw “leadership in the huddle,” and straight up called it “awesome.” You can almost feel the energy shift, right? It’s clear the coach believes in what he saw. He made sure to give props to the guys around Willis too, noting that the O-Line did a “really nice job” with protection. Plus, running back De’Von Achane’s ground game, with his “5 or 6 yards plus a carry,” apparently opened up those passing lanes, making Willis’s job even smoother. Hafley specifically pointed out how “very clean” Willis looked when he got outside the pocket a few times. That’s a massive step one, and it certainly gives them “a lot to build on.”
Achane on Willis’s Legs: The Comparison Everyone’s Watching
It’s impossible to talk about Willis without also mentioning the other big QB story of the night: Tua Tagovailoa’s “less-than-ideal debut” for the Falcons, which happened on the very same night. Everyone’s already drawing those comparisons between the two, and Willis’s performance gave them plenty to chew on. De’Von Achane, who clearly benefited from Willis’s play, spoke directly about the new QB’s running ability. He said it was “great to see him use his legs and run.” Achane even started to say, “It’s different when,” implying a new dynamic with Willis under center. That kind of mobility changes the game, opens up options, and puts defenses on their heels. It’s a completely different look, and it’s something the Dolphins are clearly embracing.
This “first step” from Willis is huge for the Dolphins. With “a lot to build on,” as Coach Hafley said, all eyes will be on how Willis follows this up. The team’s direction, especially in this post-Tua world, feels like it just got a major shot of adrenaline. Get ready to see what they cook up next!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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