Former Liberty star wastes little time making an impression in Miami. Former Liberty quarterback Malik Willis made a strong first impression in his Miami Dolphins debut Friday night, leading Miami on an impressive opening drive before watching the rest of the game from the sideline.
Willis started the Dolphins’ preseason opener against the Washington Commanders and completed 4 of 5 passes for 43 yards, adding two carries for 9 yards. He did not throw a touchdown or interception. The numbers don’t jump off the page, largely because Willis played only one series. The most encouraging part was how efficiently the former Flames standout operated Miami’s new offense.
Willis directed a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive on Miami’s opening possession. He connected with rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas for a 28-yard gain and also found Malik Washington on a short completion as the Dolphins steadily moved down the field. The drive eventually ended with De’Von Achane scoring on a 1-yard touchdown run.
For Willis, it was another opportunity to show how far he has come since his days at Liberty, where he developed into one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football. The arm talent that made Willis such a coveted NFL prospect was evident again Friday night. His first completion as a Dolphin went to Washington, while his overall performance showed the poise and mobility that have become trademarks of his game.
And that’s what made the brief appearance particularly encouraging for Miami. The Dolphins weren’t simply giving Willis preseason reps; they were putting their new quarterback in charge of the starting offense and allowing him to establish the tone.
Miami ultimately fell 20-7, but the final score mattered considerably less than what happened on that opening possession. Once Willis and the starters left the game, the Dolphins struggled to maintain the momentum, exposing some concerns about the team’s depth.
For Liberty fans, however, the night was about Willis.
The former Flame entered the NFL with plenty of questions surrounding his development as a passer. After spending time with Tennessee and Green Bay, Willis enters 2026 in a much different position: Miami has handed him the keys to the offense after signing him to a three-year, $67.5 million contract. His preseason debut was short, but it was efficient—and it provided another reminder of why Liberty fans have been watching his NFL journey so closely.
Malik Willis’ preseason debut:
Passing: 4-of-5, 43 yards, 0 TD, 0 INT
Rushing: 2 carries, 9 yards
Total: 52 yards
For a player who spent his college career proving doubters wrong, Friday night was another small but significant step. The Dolphins may have lost the game, but their former Liberty quarterback gave them plenty of reason to feel encouraged about what comes next.
