The New York Jets are gearing up for the upcoming NFL free agency, armed with over $70 million in available cap space. As teams prepare to make strategic moves, speculation surrounds the Jets’ approach to the quarterback position. Options range from pursuing former No. 1 overall pick Kyler Murray to potentially trading for a veteran quarterback while eyeing the promising talent in the 2027 NFL Draft.
ESPN has identified the Jets as one of the frontrunners to sign Malik Willis, a quarterback currently with the Green Bay Packers. According to ESPN’s Rich Cimini, a potential contract could be structured as a two-year deal worth $40 million, which includes a $15 million signing bonus and a $5 million guaranteed base salary in the first year. The second year of the deal would see $10 million of the $20 million base guaranteed.
Cimini noted that this contract framework resembles the offer the Jets made to quarterback Justin Fields last offseason. While Fields did not meet expectations and is likely to be released, the Jets’ financial flexibility presents an opportunity to invest in a player like Willis, who has demonstrated potential during his brief appearances on the field.
Willis stepped in for Jordan Love during the 2025 season, managing to complete 85.7% of his passes over four games. He threw for 422 yards and three touchdowns, while also showcasing his mobility by rushing for two additional scores. Despite his limited playing time, Willis’s performance has attracted significant attention.
However, a $20 million annual salary may not be enough to secure Willis’s commitment. NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reported from the NFL Scouting Combine that it is widely expected Willis will command a deal exceeding $30 million annually. His representation by David Mulugheta of Athletes First adds to the anticipation, given Mulugheta’s successful negotiation of Deshaun Watson’s landmark $230 million guaranteed contract with the Cleveland Browns.
As free agency approaches, it is increasingly likely that a partnership between Willis and the Jets could result in a contract ranging from $30 million to $35 million per season. A potential two-year contract worth $64 million would undoubtedly attract interest from Willis, who is expected to have multiple suitors once the free agency window opens.
In addition to the Jets, ESPN highlighted the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings as other possible destinations for the quarterback. As the market heats up, the dynamics of the NFL landscape are set to shift dramatically, with the Jets poised to make a significant move in their pursuit of a quarterback who could redefine their future.
