The Cleveland Browns surprised the entire NFL world after selecting two quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft. Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders arrived to bolster the Browns quarterback room, and after an up-and-down season, both started at least six games that only served to show flashes of potential.
This offseason, the Browns QB competition continues to generate buzz-despite Sanders finishing with three wins in his last six games, which apparently isn’t enough, as the franchise continues exploring options to upgrade the starting quarterback position.
Free Agency and Malik Willis
The name Malik Willis is gaining the most traction at this point in NFL free agency. He’s viewed as one of the top available quarterbacks who could thrive in a “comeback” scenario. However, according to Jeremy Fowler, the former Tennessee Titans QB may ultimately steer clear of the Browns.
Willis was part of the 2022 NFL Draft class and was selected in the third round by the Tennessee Titans, where he appeared in 11 games, throwing for 350 yards, zero touchdowns, and three interceptions.
The potential Malik Willis contract is the main obstacle for Cleveland. Reports suggest he could command around $20 million per year, and the Browns salary cap situation leaves limited room to maneuver.
Other destinations appear more likely for the quarterback who revitalized his career with the Green Bay Packers-a development that serves as positive news for Shedeur Sanders, who remains under pressure from both NFL free agency rumors and the upcoming NFL Draft quarterback prospects.