Malik Willis is ranked 27th in the entire NFL for passer rating and a dismal 28th in ESPN’s Quarterback Rating through just two games, and the Miami Dolphins QB isn’t afraid to admit he’s his own worst enemy right now. He’s openly stated he’s “tripping” because he’s too hard on himself, but also that he sees it as the only way to get better. This isn’t just a tough start; it’s a critical early test for a young signal-caller who desperately needs to turn things around.
The Numbers Don’t Lie, and Neither Does Willis
Being ranked 27th and 28th among NFL QBs is a tough pill to swallow, especially when you’re just two games into the season. Willis isn’t shying away from it, though. He’s looking at his performance with a microscope, telling reporters, “I’ve got to keep getting better, just like everybody else on our offense. I hold myself to the same standard I will hold them, and I think that’s fair. If not more probably.” You gotta respect the accountability, even if the results aren’t there yet. The stats back up his self-criticism, too. He’s 28th in the NFL in time to throw, which can be a superpower if you extend plays for big gains, but it’s also a fast lane to getting sacked. He’s already been sacked twice in nine games, and he knows it needs to stop. He even admitted, “Sometime I think, twice, I should have probably thrown it away because there was nothing there.” Add to that his 29th ranking in completion percentage above or below expectation, according to NFL Next Gen stats, and you see why he’s feeling the pressure.
Getting Everyone On the Same Page
It’s not all on Willis, either. There have been moments where his young receivers just haven’t been on the same page, leading to missed opportunities. Willis is quick to protect his guys, though. “It’s continuous communication with guys, and I wouldn’t put anybody on the spot,” he said. He’s focused on “continuing to keep them positive and keep them understanding that we have 15 more games and that’s a lot of games in this league.” That’s the leadership you want to see, and it’s something Coach Jeff Hafley has apparently noticed, praising Willis’s growth as a leader since their time back in Green Bay. Knowing you’ve got your coach’s backing is huge, especially when you’re facing down tough early-season stats.
The Dolphins are gearing up for a Week 3 clash against the Kansas City Chiefs, a game where Willis will need to show some real progress. Can he clean up the sacks and get in sync with his receivers? Miami needs him to stop “tripping” and start leading them downfield. Fifteen games is a lot, but every one of them counts, and the time for improvement is now.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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