In a move that caught many off guard, the Cincinnati Bengals announced the release of former Tennessee Titans quarterback Malik Willis, bringing an abrupt end to what some hoped might be a new chapter in the young signal-caller’s career. The decision, which came amidst a flurry of roster adjustments as training camps get underway, has sparked speculation around the league about what this means for both Willis’s future and the Bengals’ depth chart behind Joe Burrow.
Willis, a third-round pick of the Titans in the 2022 NFL Draft, entered the league with significant intrigue. Coming out of Liberty University, he was hailed for his strong arm, athleticism, and raw potential. However, questions about his readiness for the NFL level and inconsistency in decision-making led many scouts to view him as a project quarterback who would need time to develop. The Titans gave him opportunities during his rookie campaign, particularly when injuries sidelined Ryan Tannehill, but Willis struggled to find consistency on the field. His time in Tennessee ended when the team opted to draft Will Levis and ride with veteran depth, effectively ending Willis’s run in Nashville.
The Bengals brought him in during the offseason to bolster competition in their quarterback room and perhaps give him a shot to learn behind one of the league’s best in Joe Burrow. With Burrow as the undisputed starter, the backup job was expected to be a battle among Jake Browning, rookie Carter Stanley, and Willis. Despite showing flashes of his mobility and arm talent in practices and limited preseason action, Willis failed to fully capitalize on the opportunity. Coaches reportedly praised his effort and leadership, but his inconsistency in reading defenses and hesitance in high-pressure situations ultimately hurt his standing.
The decision to release Willis wasn’t made lightly. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor addressed the media following the announcement, expressing gratitude for Willis’s professionalism and dedication. “Malik came in and gave us everything he had. He’s a talented young man with a lot of tools. We just felt, given where we are and the needs of our roster, this was the best decision at this time,” Taylor said. He went on to note that the release was more about overall roster strategy than a direct indictment of Willis’s abilities.
Still, the move sends a strong signal that the Bengals are confident in their current backup options. Jake Browning, who saw game action in 2023 when Burrow was sidelined, has emerged as a reliable second option. He has shown improved command of the offense and decision-making in camp. Meanwhile, the team is high on Stanley, a developmental rookie who has impressed with his poise and accuracy. By cutting Willis now, the Bengals free up a valuable roster spot to address other needs as preseason evaluations ramp up.
From a league-wide perspective, Willis’s release adds an intriguing name to the free-agent quarterback pool. While his time in both Tennessee and Cincinnati didn’t yield the breakout success some projected, his physical tools remain tantalizing. There are teams across the NFL who might be interested in adding him as a developmental option, especially those with uncertain backup situations or looking to add a mobile quarterback element to their schemes. Teams like the Atlanta Falcons, New England Patriots, or even the Arizona Cardinals could potentially explore bringing him in for workouts.
For Willis himself, the journey is at a crossroads. The transition from college star to NFL journeyman has been bumpy, but not uncommon. Players like Geno Smith, Taylor Heinicke, and even Ryan Tannehill found their footing after early struggles, and Willis’s resilience and athletic profile suggest he still has time to rewrite his narrative. The key for him now will be landing in the right system with a coaching staff willing to invest in his development. He’ll need to work on his mechanics, pocket awareness, and timing to improve his chances of sticking long-term in the league.
Meanwhile, the Bengals continue to shape their roster with a clear focus on depth, versatility, and experience. With Burrow healthy and locked in as the franchise quarterback, the emphasis shifts to making sure the rest of the offense operates seamlessly if disaster strikes. The organization has been careful to avoid repeating the offensive pitfalls of 2023, when Burrow’s absence exposed flaws in the team’s depth and adaptability. By cutting Willis and narrowing their quarterback focus, the Bengals signal confidence that their contingency plan is stronger heading into 2025.
It’s also worth noting that the move comes at a time when teams are looking to trim rosters and maximize competition. Every rep in camp matters, and every decision can be the difference between a spot on the 53-man roster or an early exit. The Bengals may still keep tabs on Willis, especially if injuries hit or if he clears waivers and remains unsigned. It’s not unheard of for teams to revisit players they’ve released once the dust settles around final roster cuts.
Fans, meanwhile, have expressed a mix of disappointment and understanding. Some hoped that Willis could find a fresh start in Cincinnati, perhaps learning and maturing under Burrow’s wing. Others saw the writing on the wall as early reports from training camp and preseason scrimmages showed uneven performances. Social media reactions ranged from shock to support, with many hoping that Willis finds another opportunity elsewhere.
As for Willis, he took to social media shortly after the news broke, thanking the Bengals organization and fanbase for their support. “Grateful for the opportunity, thankful for the experience. God’s plan always,” he posted, showcasing maturity and humility amid the career setback.
The NFL is a league where careers can shift in the blink of an eye. For a quarterback like Malik Willis, the margin for error is razor thin, especially in a system-driven league where fit, timing, and patience are everything. He’s now a free agent once again, hoping the right door opens. Whether that next opportunity is just around the corner or still months away remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the talent is still there. It will now take the right environment to unlock it.
For the Bengals, their decision represents more than a simple release. It reflects a broader vision of a team aiming for consistency, depth, and adaptability as they chase a return to championship contention. And for Malik Willis, it’s another step in a journey that is far from over—one that still has room for growth, redemption, and perhaps one day, a comeback story that surprises everyone.
