What happened: CBS analyst Aditi Kinkhabwala credited quarterback Malik Willis for his progression in the offensive scheme following the first coaching victory of the Jeff Hafley era. Voted one of six 2026 team captains on Sept. 7, Willis has expanded his command of the playbook since rushing for his first touchdown with the club on Sept. 13.

Why it matters: Stabilizing the quarterback position gives Miami's first-year coaching staff an offensive foundation midway through the 2026 regular season. Drafted 86th overall out of Liberty by Tennessee in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Willis took over the starting role after completing 30 of 35 passes for 422 yards and three touchdowns across four games in 2025 with Green Bay, per ESPN (as of Sept. 29, 2026).

What to watch: Willis and the Dolphins match up against the New England Patriots in Week 8.