June 2, 2025 | Nashville, TN
The Tennessee Titans’ quarterback depth chart, the team has officially announced the signing of Malik Willis, formerly of the Green Bay Packers, to serve as the primary backup to rookie quarterback Cam Ward. The news, confirmed by team sources early Monday morning, marks a return to Tennessee for the former third-round pick and a new chapter in his rollercoaster NFL journey.
Titans Find Their No. 2 Behind Cam Ward
The Titans used the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select Cam Ward out of Miami, making him the clear face of the franchise moving forward. With that decision, it became increasingly likely that Tennessee would make changes behind him — and that expectation has now become reality.
By bringing back Malik Willis, who spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons in Tennessee before a brief stint with the Packers, the Titans are betting on a familiar face who offers mobility, experience in the system, and untapped upside.
“Malik knows this building, he knows how we operate, and he’s grown tremendously over the last two years,” said Titans GM Mike Borgonzi in a team release. “We believe he’s in a great position to support Cam and step in if needed.”
Malik Willis: A Career of Twists and Turns
Originally drafted by the Titans in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Liberty, Willis was seen as a high-upside, dual-threat prospect with raw mechanics but elite athleticism. He started a handful of games during his rookie season but struggled with consistency and command of the offense. In 2024, under a new coaching regime, Willis was waived and later signed by the Green Bay Packers, where he spent the year as a developmental backup behind Jordan Love.
Now 25, Willis returns to Nashville with a fresh opportunity — not to be a franchise savior, but to serve as a reliable No. 2 option behind Ward.
Where Does Malik Willis Rank Among NFL Backup QBs?
With starting experience, athletic upside, and familiarity with Tennessee’s system, Malik Willis now ranks among the more intriguing backup quarterbacks in the league for 2025. While he may not carry the polish or pedigree of other top-tier No. 2s like Jacoby Brissett or Taylor Heinicke, Willis’ profile includes several valuable traits:
Strengths:
•Mobility: One of the most athletic QBs in the league, able to extend plays and escape pressure.
•Deep Ball Arm Talent: While inconsistent, his raw arm strength is elite.
•System Familiarity: Having played under former and current Titans schemes, he won’t face a steep learning curve.
Concerns:
•Decision Making: His early career was marked by hesitancy and poor reads under pressure.
•Accuracy: Short and intermediate throws remain a work in progress.
•Lack of Live Reps: Limited in-game experience since 2022 may impact his readiness.
NFL Backup QB Landscape – 2025 Snapshot (Ranking Tier):
•Tier 1 – High-Level Starters in Waiting: Sam Darnold (Minnesota), Gardner Minshew (Raiders)
•Tier 2 – Reliable Veterans: Jacoby Brissett (Commanders), Cooper Rush (Cowboys), Taylor Heinicke (Falcons)
•Tier 3 – High-Upside Projects / Athletic Backups: Malik Willis (Titans), Trey Lance (49ers), Hendon Hooker (Lions)
Willis slots into Tier 3, offering more boom-or-bust potential than traditional backups. His dual-threat ability could make him a dangerous plug-in option should Ward ever miss time.
Titans’ QB Room Is Set — For Now
With Cam Ward entrenched as the starter and Malik Willis locked in as his backup, the Titans are likely finished reshuffling the quarterback room for 2025. Former second-round pick Will Levis is expected to be moved, potentially via trade, in the coming weeks — with the Detroit Lions among rumored suitors.
“Our job is to give Cam every opportunity to succeed,” said head coach Brian Callahan. “Having someone like Malik who’s hungry, experienced, and mobile adds another layer of security for our offense.”
Final Thoughts
Malik Willis’ return to the Titans is both a reunion and a revival — a second chance to prove he belongs in the NFL. And in a quarterback landscape where depth has never been more valuable, the Titans may have quietly made a smart, cost-effective move in bringing him back.
Only time will tell if he gets another shot at starting, but for now, Malik Willis is exactly where the Titans need him — one snap away.
