When Malik Willis entered the NFL Draft, scouts couldn't help but notice the similarities to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Now, the man who once called plays for Hurts is coaching Willis in Miami, and he's sharing his unique perspective on the comparison.

Kevin Patullo, the Dolphins' new passing game coordinator, spent last season orchestrating the Eagles' offense with Hurts under center. So when asked if he sees the same traits in Willis, Patullo offered a thoughtful take.

"I haven't been with him enough yet to make a full judgment," Patullo admitted. "But Jalen's biggest strength is that he wins games—he finds ways to get it done. That's what makes him special."

Still, Patullo sees clear parallels in how the two quarterbacks operate. "You can see some similarities, especially in the way they move and extend plays," he explained. "That's what makes guys like Malik, Jalen, and even Patrick Mahomes so dangerous. When a quarterback can keep a play alive, it puts the defense in a real bind."

Patullo broke down exactly why that mobility is such a game-changer. "Defenses have to cover for an extra second or two. The pass rush that was supposed to get there in three seconds now has to hold up for five, six, even seven seconds. And certain coverages just become impossible to maintain when the quarterback can run. It's a serious weapon."

For Willis, who's now with the Green Bay Packers after stints in Tennessee and Miami, that comparison to Hurts carries weight. Both quarterbacks entered the league with questions about their passing consistency but undeniable athletic gifts. And as Patullo knows from firsthand experience, a quarterback who can make defenses pay with his legs—while growing as a passer—is a rare commodity in today's NFL.