In a strategic move to bolster their quarterback options, the Green Bay Packers executed a discreet transaction before the regular season, acquiring Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans. Willis, who had underwhelmed during his brief tenure in Tennessee and found himself trailing behind Will Levis and newly signed Mason Rudolph on the depth chart, seemed destined for a change.
The acquisition of Willis quickly proved advantageous for the Packers. When Jordan Love sustained an injury, Willis stepped in and guided the team to two significant victories. Although he wasn’t tasked with heavy lifting, he delivered whenever it was required.
Remarkably, the Packers secured Willis for the minimal cost of a seventh-round pick, making his immediate impact on the field a noteworthy return on investment. Intriguingly, the Packers managed to extract further value from this deal, even without Willis taking the field again. This time, the advantage stemmed from the Titans’ missteps.
Packers Capitalize on Titans’ Mistake in Malik Willis Trade
At the time of the trade, Tennessee’s rationale seemed understandable: offloading a third-string quarterback for a draft pick appeared to be a prudent move. However, the Titans’ decision to trade Willis now looks questionable.
Will Levis, who had shown potential as a rookie, has struggled significantly in his sophomore season, leading the league with seven interceptions in five games and adding three fumbles. His ten turnovers in just five games have been costly.
Levis’ injury presented an opportunity for the Titans to evaluate Rudolph in a full game setting. Facing the formidable Buffalo Bills, Rudolph appeared outmatched, completing 25 of 40 pass attempts for 215 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. The Titans were defeated 34-10, dropping to a 1-5 record. In contrast, Willis has already matched Tennessee’s win total in a fraction of the playing time.
The question arises: would Willis have thrived with the Titans? Given the struggles of both Levis and Rudolph, it seems unlikely. The Titans lack the robust roster that the Packers possess.
Ultimately, the Packers secured the quarterback who has outperformed Tennessee’s remaining options, all for a mere seventh-round pick. Levis’ performance has been dismal, and Rudolph hasn’t fared much better. Tennessee’s decision to trade perhaps their most promising quarterback for such a low return now appears to be a glaring miscalculation.
