In a season filled with ups and downs, Malik Willis shone brightly, yet uncertainty looms over the Green Bay Packers regarding their starting quarterback for Week 18.
Rob Demovsky, an esteemed NFL reporter for ESPN who has covered the Packers since 1997, shares insights into this pivotal moment for the team. While the Packers faced a tough defeat against the Baltimore Ravens, there was a glimmer of hope in the form of backup quarterback Malik Willis. He stepped in to start the game when Jordan Love was unable to participate due to not passing concussion protocols. Unfortunately, during what could have been his best game as a professional, Willis had to exit in the fourth quarter due to discomfort in his injured right shoulder. Although he could have returned after a brief assessment in the locker room, the game's outcome was largely decided by that point, resulting in a disappointing 41-24 loss for Green Bay.
Now, with the regular season finale against the Minnesota Vikings approaching, the Packers face a critical decision about who will lead the offense. Having clinched a playoff spot, they are locked into the NFC's No. 7 seed following their loss, leaving head coach Matt LaFleur to weigh the importance of rest versus momentum heading into the playoffs after three consecutive defeats. "We just want to get him through the protocol," LaFleur commented regarding Love, who suffered a concussion the previous week against the Chicago Bears. "And then we'll have a decision to make."
On a night dominated by the Ravens' Derrick Henry, who rushed for an impressive 216 yards, Willis stood out among the Packers. Before his shoulder injury sidelined him with 7:53 left in the game, he completed 18 of 21 passes for a total of 288 yards and threw for one touchdown. Additionally, Willis showcased his versatility by rushing for two touchdowns on read-option plays, accumulating 60 yards on nine carries.
LaFleur displayed remarkable confidence in Willis by allowing him to expand the offense, including taking deep shots downfield. Willis excelled in this regard, completing six out of seven attempts for passes that traveled at least 20 yards in the air. This achievement tied him with Aaron Rodgers for the most completions of 20-plus air yards by a Packers quarterback since ESPN began monitoring such statistics back in 2006. "I thought it was cool that he trusted me enough to give me an opp," Willis remarked, reflecting on his performance.
Leading up to the game, Willis had limited practice reps, primarily because Love was expected to return from his concussion. Compounding matters, Willis also missed a day of practice due to an illness that affected several teammates. His shoulder injury occurred the previous week during a game against the Bears, where he played in relief of Love.
During a crucial moment when the Packers were trailing 34-24 and had just moved into Ravens territory, Willis experienced pain in his shoulder after completing a pass to wide receiver Christian Watson, who had an impressive night with five catches for 113 yards and a touchdown. Shortly thereafter, backup quarterback Clayton Tune threw an interception, which further dampened the Packers' hopes of a comeback.
Looking ahead, it's unlikely that Willis will remain with the Packers beyond this season, as he is set to become a free agent. He may find opportunities to compete for a starting role with another team. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Willis expressed a desire to focus on the present, wishing he could have finished the game. "I think that we just got to keep playing ball and taking it one week at a time. Hopefully, we can get out with a 'W' next week, after looking at this tape and understanding what went wrong, and we can worry about all that stuff after the season."
This situation raises intriguing questions: Should the Packers prioritize player health or seek momentum heading into the playoffs? Will Willis secure a starting position elsewhere next season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
