Malik Willis, the third-round pick from 2022, has completed 57.6 percent of his passes for 1,057 yards through six games this season, a stat line that might not scream ‘elite’ but has his former head coach, Mike Vrabel, buzzing with pride. Vrabel, who coached Willis for the first two years of his career, publicly championed the young quarterback’s development this week, just days before they face each other on Sunday.
The Journey from Nashville to Miami
Vrabel was the guy who knew Willis from the jump. He was Malik’s head coach for those first two years after the Titans snatched him up in the third round of the 2022 draft. As a rookie, Willis got into eight games, starting three of them, and then appeared in another three games in 2023 under Vrabel’s watch. It’s clear that bond never faded. Vrabel told reporters on Monday that his time working with Willis in Nashville was “great.” He’s been keeping in touch, sending congrats, and making sure Willis knows he’s happy for him. Willis battled hard, even going to Green Bay at one point, before he landed a deal in Miami. Now, the player Vrabel helped mold is a Dolphin, and Sunday, they square off.
The Evolving Talent
So, what makes Vrabel so proud? It’s not just about the numbers, it’s the grind. Vrabel made it clear, saying, “Malik’s continued to develop, and that’s the thing that I’m proud of him for, and I know that he should be proud of himself to continue to battle and go to Green Bay.” He sees the raw talent that’s always been there, describing Willis as “very talented,” with a “strong arm” who “can throw at different platforms.” Plus, he’s a “strong runner.” But it’s the mental game where Vrabel really sees the leap, believing Willis is “starting to see things a little quicker, a little clearer, just as he’s developed in the NFL.” Through six games this season, Willis has also added three rushing touchdowns and 223 yards on the ground, alongside his four passing touchdowns and four interceptions.
Showdown on Sunday
This Sunday isn’t just another game. Vrabel, now coaching the Patriots, will be standing on the opposite sideline from his former protégé when the Dolphins and Patriots clash in South Florida. You know both guys will have that little extra fire. Vrabel gets to see the development he’s so proud of firsthand, and Willis gets to show his old coach just how far he’s come. It’s going to be one heck of a storyline to watch unfold.
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.
Leave a Reply