The Miami Dolphins made a bold move this offseason, signing Malik Willis to a starting role despite his limited NFL experience. With only a handful of career starts under his belt, Willis remains something of a mystery—but early returns from Dolphins camp suggest the gamble might just pay off.

Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik has spent the last few months getting to know his new quarterback, and he’s come away impressed by both Willis’s talent and his character. “He can spin the ball all over the field, can throw the ball everywhere, can run, obviously, can use his legs,” Slowik told reporters. “He’s tough, but honestly, what I’ve enjoyed the most so far is getting to know him. The person is really fun to be around. He’s really energetic. He infuses everybody with a lot of energy.”

That energy will be critical as Miami works to build a foundation around Willis this offseason. The 2026 season isn’t expected to be a breakout year for the young signal-caller—he’s 3-3 in six career starts—but it could be a pivotal one for his development. Willis won’t have the luxury of a star-studded supporting cast, either. His receiving corps features Jalen Tolbert, Malik Washington, and Tutu Atwell, with running back De’Von Achane standing as the offense’s only proven playmaker.

How Slowik schemes around those limitations will be one of the most intriguing storylines of Miami’s season. Willis is the centerpiece of this offense, and while the Dolphins have taken a significant risk by handing him the keys, the early scouting reports suggest this could be a move that reshapes the franchise’s future.