Malik Willis Injury News & Updates

Willis completed both of his passes for six yards and one touchdown in the Packers' 27-20 win over the Giants on Sunday. He added 16 yards on one rushing attempt.

Willis filled in on one drive while Jordan Love went to the locker room to be evaluated for an injury, but Love was quickly able to return to action. While in the game, Willis moved the offense and threw a one-yard touchdown pass to Christian Watson in the second quarter. If Love would need to miss any time to injury, Willis has shown the ability to succeed in coach Matt LaFleur's offense.

Willis (calf) does not carry an injury designation into Monday's game against the Eagles, Wes Hodklewicz of the Packers' official site reports.

A calf injury limited Willis' practice participation Friday, but the fourth-year quarterback was able to shed an injury tag for Week 10 after logging a full practice Saturday. He has yet to appear in a regular-season game and will continue to serve as Jordan Love's backup.

Willis (calf) was a limited participant at practice Friday.

Willis practiced in full Thursday, and it's not clear when he picked up the calf injury. In any case, he'll likely have to log another full practice Saturday to avoid carrying an injury designation when Green Bay releases its last practice report of the week.

Willis (ankle) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against Carolina, Rob Demovsky of ESPN.com reports.

An ankle injury limited Willis' practice participation over the last two days of Week 9 prep, but the fourth-year pro has been cleared to serve as Jordan Love's backup quarterback Sunday. Willis has not played a snap this season after appearing in seven regular-season games (two starts) for the Packers in 2024.

Willis was a limited participant in Thursday's practice due to an ankle injury.

The ankle injury appears to be a new issue, as Willis was not listed on Wednesday's practice report. The severity of the injury isn't clear, but his participation in Friday's practice will provide clarity on his status heading into Sunday's game against the Panthers. The Packers would likely elevate Clayton Tune from the practice squad to the active roster to serve as the backup quarterback behind Jordan Love if Willis is not cleared to play Week 9.

Willis completed three of six passes for 50 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's 20-7 preseason win over the Seahawks.

Willis started in the absence of Jordan Love (thumb) and played with the majority of Green Bay's top skill-position players. His longest completion went for 39 yards to Matthew Golden, and he later capped the same drive with a one-yard touchdown toss to Romeo Doubs. Willis also displayed some inconsistency as a passer, as he overthrew Malik Heath for an interception to end the Packers' first drvie. Willis will enter the season as the backup to Love.

Packers coach Matt LaFleur said Tuesday that Willis, and some of Green Bay's starters, will suit up for Saturday's preseason finale against the Seahawks, Rob Demovsky of ESPN.com reports.

Willis started the Packers' preseason win over the Colts last weekend, completing six of 14 passes for 83 yards while handling the first three possessions with Jordan Love (thumb) sidelined. While Love will get some work in during joint practices with Seattle in 7-on-7 drills this week, per Wes Hodkiewicz of the Packers' official site, the No. 1 quarterback hasn't yet been cleared for full-team reps in his recovery from surgery undergone one week ago to address an ulnar collateral ligament injury. That should position Willis to start Saturday's exhibition finale, barring an unexpected announcement from LaFleur. Love is still fully expected to be ready for Week 1, however, so Willis will open the regular season in his usual backup role.

Willis completed six of 14 passes for 83 yards in the Packers' 23-19 preseason win over the Colts on Saturday afternoon.

Willis drew the start for Jordan Love (thumb) and played the first three possessions. The veteran backup was lacking in efficiency, but he did record 21- and 33-yard completions to Mecole Hardman and MarShawn Lloyd, respectively, and also saw a 31-yard connection with Julian Hicks wiped out by an offensive holding penalty. Willis appears secure in his No. 2 role behind Love, who's expected to be ready for Week 1 after undergoing surgery Tuesday on his ulnar collateral ligament.

Willis is positioned to start Saturday's preseason game against the Colts with Jordan Love (thumb) recovering from surgery undergone to address a ligament injury, Jacob Slinkman of SI reports.

Willis' growth as he enters Year 2 in coach Matt LaFleur's scheme will be interesting to monitor, especially after he managed to impress with two early-season wins when called upon to step up under center in 2024 (one of which came Week 2 versus Indianapolis). He'll be tasked with overcoming injuries to the wide receiver corps during Saturday's exhibition tilt, however, with Jayden Reed (foot), Romeo Doubs (back) and Dontayvion Wicks (calf) all having missed practice Thursday. The Packers expect Love to resume practicing next week, and the team hasn't expressed any concerns about his status for Week 1.

Willis completed four of nine passes for 39 yards and had one carry for five yards in Saturday's preseason loss to the Jets. He also lost a fumble in the contest.

Willis entered the game after starting quarterback Jordan Love left it and led all Packers quarterbacks with 24 snaps. It was hardly the best night in the box score for Willis, but fellow quarterbacks Sean Clifford and Taylor Elgersma are not threatening him on the depth chart, and barring injury he will remain Green Bay's No. 2 option at the quarterback spot.

Willis recorded 550 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, 138 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown over seven appearances in 2024.

The Packers acquired Willis from the Titans less than two weeks before the regular season began, and that proved to be a pivotal move, as he led the Packers to victory in both Weeks 2 and 3 while filling in for an injured Jordan Love. The sample size was small, but Willis posted a sterling 124.8 quarterback rating in 2024, which put him back on the map after a nondescript start to his career. Willis has one year remaining on his rookie contract, so barring a trade to a team that may be interested in him as a starter, he will be back in Green Bay for another go-around.

Willis (thumb) was a full practice participant Thursday, Bill Huber of SI.com reports.

One day removed from being limited due to a right thumb injury Wednesday, Willis didn't have any restrictions on his practice reps. The same can be said for No. 1 QB Jordan Love, who "looked good," per coach Matt LaFleur. With Love seemingly past the right elbow injury that he sustained this past Sunday against the Bears, Willis will settle back into his backup role for Sunday's wild-card game in Philadelphia.

Willis was limited in Wednesday's practice due to a right thumb injury, Matt Schneidman of The Athletic reports.

Willis joined No. 1 QB Jordan Love with a cap on his reps to begin the week, but the former's health concern wasn't known before Wednesday, while the latter's right elbow issue has been the dominant talking point as Green Bay prepares for Sunday's wild-card contest at Philadelphia. There seems to be hope in the Packers' facility that Love will be able to suit up this weekend, but Willis could be tasked with filling in again of Love doesn't make it all the way back. In his seven appearances (two starts) for the team this season, Willis has completed 40 of 54 passes for 550 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, notched 20 carries for 138 yards and another TD and lost his only fumble.

Willis completed 10 of 13 passes for 136 yards, rushed once for three yards and lost a fumble after replacing Jordan Love (elbow) in the second quarter of Sunday's 24-22 loss to the Bears.

Willis entered with the Packers trailing 14-3 but orchestrated a run-heavy comeback that culminated with a Brandon McManus field goal putting Green Bay ahead 22-21 with 54 seconds left in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately for the Packers, Chicago answered with a game-winning field goal on the game's final play, ensuring that the Packers would remain the No. 7 seed in the NFC. Love's exit seemed precautionary, so Willis will likely return to a backup role on the road in the wild-card round against the Eagles.

Willis completed four of five pass attempts for 56 yards and a touchdown while rushing four times for 23 yards in Sunday's 30-27 win over Jacksonville.

Willis entered Sunday's contest in the third quarter after starter Jordan Love (groin) exited due to injury. Green Bay's backup performed well in the win, holding a lead handed to him by the starter early in the second half. Willis would be making his third start in place of Love should the latter sit out next Sunday's tilt against the Lions. In two prior starts for Green Bay, Willis produced three touchdowns to no interceptions.

Willis completed 13 of his 19 passes for 202 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Sunday's 30-14 win over the Titans. He added six rushes for 73 yards and an additional touchdown.

Willis drew his second consecutive start, this one coming against the Titans, who traded him for a seventh-round pick in late August. It wasn't a big surprise to see Willis excel as a rusher, and he played a key role in that regard in each of the Packers' first two possessions by finding the end zone from five yards away and then accounting for 57 yards on the ground on the Green Bay's second drive that resulted in a field goal. What was more unexpected was his ability as a passer, as Willis was able to accurately distribute the ball to skill-position players with the end result being four completions that went for at least 30 yards -- highlighted by a 30-yard touchdown toss to Emanuel Wilson midway through the third quarter. Jordan Love (knee) is likely to be back for a Week 4 divisional matchup with Minnesota, but Willis has filled in admirably and gone 2-0 as a starter to this point.

Willis will be the Packers' starting quarterback for Sunday's game at Tennessee with Jordan Love (knee) inactive, Mike Spofford of the team's official site reports.

Willis is earning his second consecutive start in place of Love, who managed three straight limited practices before being listed as questionable for Week 3 action. Love clearly has made progress in his recovery from an MCL sprain that he sustained in the season opener, but the Packers again will exercise caution with their franchise quarterback. During last Sunday's win against the Colts, Willis completed 12 of 14 passes for 122 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions while taking six carries for 41 yards.

Willis is likely to start at quarterback for the Packers in Sunday's Week 3 game against the Titans with Jordan Love (knee) not expected to suit up, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Love was able to practice in a limited fashion all week and was labeled as questionable on Friday's injury report, but it appears he'll sit out at least one more game while recovering from an MCL sprain in his left knee. Willis may have made that decision a little easier with his performance last week, when he completed 12 of 14 passes for 122 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions while leading the Packers to a victory against Indianapolis. Love hasn't officially been ruled out yet, but if he does miss the contest, Willis is in line to start with Sean Clifford serving as his backup.

Willis completed 12 of 14 passes for 122 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions and added six rushes for 41 yards in the Packers' 16-10 win over the Colts on Sunday.

Willis proved more than competent with the limited gameplan he was tasked with running, and both Josh Jacobs (151 rushing yards) and his defense (three interceptions, one sack) did plenty of heavy lifting. The 2022 third-round pick also was effective as a rusher, and he did average a solid 8.7 yards per attempt on his 14 drop backs. Willis' one touchdown toss went to Dontayvion Wicks from 14 yards out late in the first quarter, and he next takes on his former Titans squad on the road in a Week 3 road matchup as Love continues his multi-week recovery.

Willis will start in place of QB Jordan Love (knee) with the latter inactive for Sunday's game versus the Colts, Mike Spofford of the Packers' official site reports.

At least for Week 2, this was the likeliest outcome for Green Bay's quarterback room after Love suffered a sprained MCL in his left knee in the season-opening loss to the Eagles in Brazil. Based on a report from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network earlier Sunday, Love is targeting a return to action Week 5 on the road against the Rams, which would give Willis two more starts in addition to Sunday's nod, while Sean Clifford backs him up. In 12 career appearances (three starts), Willis has completed 35 of 67 passes for 350 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions, rushed 32 times for 144 yards and one touchdown and fumbled four times (three lost).

Coach Matt LaFleur said Monday that Willis will start Sunday's game against the Colts over Sean Clifford if Jordan Love (knee) isn't cleared to play, Ryan Wood of USA Today reports.

LaFleur didn't officially rule Love out for Week 2, but he said Willis will start until the franchise QB is ready to return. Reports have linked Love to a 3-to-6-week recovery timeline due to an MCL sprain, so though LaFleur is still leaving the door open for Love to play Sunday and said he won't go on IR, per Bill Huber of SI.com, it seems likely that Willis will start versus Indianapolis. Willis joined the Packers via trade from the Titans in the last week of August, so the 2022 third-round pick presumably isn't yet fully acclimated to his new offensive scheme. That could result in Green Bay deploying a run-heavy attack headlined by Josh Jacobs on Sunday.

Willis is expected to start at quarterback in the Packers' Week 2 home game against the Colts on Sept. 15, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reports.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has yet to comment on the team's plans at quarterback for Week 2 and likely won't until the team resumes practicing during the upcoming week, but Willis appears poised to take over for Jordan Love (knee), who suffered an MCL sprain in Friday's 34-29 loss to the Eagles in Brazil. As Glazer notes, the Packers received better news than anticipated regarding Love, who suffered a "Grade 1 or 2" sprain, which is considered a "2-to-4-week injury." With that in mind, Willis doesn't look as though he'll be in store for a long-term stint atop the depth chart if he does in fact take over as the team's new starter. The Packers acquired Willis from the Titans in the final week of August, so he didn't have a chance to play in any of Green Bay's preseason contests before he came on to replace Love for the final six seconds of Friday's loss. Willis has appeared in parts of 12 games (three starts) over his three-year NFL career, completing 35 of 67 pass attempts for 350 yards, no touchdowns and

Willis did not complete the lone pass he attempted in Friday's 34-29 loss to the Eagles.

Willis has been a Packer for less than two weeks, but he took the field for the final two plays of Friday's contest after starting quarterback Jordan Love (lower leg) was forced from the game. Love's status remains up in the air, but if he is forced to miss any time, Green Bay will need to turn to either Willis, Sean Clifford -- who is on the practice squad but has been with the Packers since being drafted by the team in 2023 -- or a quarterback outside the organization.

The Titans traded Willis to the Packers for a 2025 seventh-round pick Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

A third-round pick of the Titans in 2022, Willis has made 11 appearances (three starts) through two seasons, completing 35 of 66 passes for 350 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions while rushing 32 times for 144 yards and one TD. With the move to Green Bay, he seemingly will serve as the No. 2 QB behind Jordan Love, though the Packers still have two other young signal-callers on the roster in Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt ahead of cut-down day.

Willis completed 12 of 16 passes for 116 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Saturday's 16-15 preseason win over the Seahawks. He added four rushes for 30 yards.

The Titans sat Will Levis for the game, leaving Willis in line for the start over Mason Rudolph. Willis had several strong throws, highlighted by gains of 24 and 14 yards. Unsurprisingly, he was able to supplement that with his work on the ground, also chipping in an 11-yard rush. Willis is competing with Mason Rudolph for the backup job to begin the regular season and his current standing with the team remains unclear.

Willis completed four of five passes for 74 yards during the 2023 season with the Titans. He added five rushes for 21 yards.

Willis appeared in only three games during the season, the latest of which came in Week 8. His only pass attempts came in Week 6 in relief of Ryan Tannehill, and he otherwise spent much of his season as the third-string quarterback. With Tannehill's tenure in Tennessee almost certainly over, Willis may enter the 2024 campaign as the backup to Will Levis (foot).

Willis (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

Willis has served as the backup to Will Levis with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) sidelined. However, with Tannehill active Sunday, Willis will serve only as the emergency third quarterback.

Willis did not attempt a pass in Sunday's 28-23 win over the Falcons. He rushed the ball twice for four yards.

Willis was expected to earn some reps under center alongside Will Levis with Ryan Tannehill sidelined (ankle), though he found himself on the field for only two snaps. Given the success Levis had in producing explosive plays, it's unlikely Willis sees an expanded role in the Titans' Week 9 matchup against Pittsburgh.

Head coach Mike Vrabel said Friday that both Willis and Will Levis will take snaps at quarterback Sunday against the Falcons with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) ruled out for Week 8, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Vrabel made similar comments about the Titans' quarterback situation earlier in the week when Tannehill's status for Sunday's game looked to be in doubt, and the coach hasn't named a fill-in starter even with Tannehill having now been officially ruled out. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Wednesday that Levis is being prepped for the start and is expected to see the bulk of the playing time behind center, and even if that comes to pass, Willis is still expected to have a role in the game plan. If the two quarterbacks don't alternate series, the Titans could make use of the more mobile Willis by deploying him as a change-of-pace option behind Levis.

With Ryan Tannehill (ankle) considered unlikely to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that the Titans are preparing Will Levis to handle the bulk of the playing time at QB on Sunday against the Falcons, with Willis also a candidate to see action in the contest.

Look for added context regarding the Titans' signal-caller situation to emerge in the coming days, but if Tannehill is indeed ruled out ahead of Week 8 action, it looks like the 2-4 team is inclined to give Levis the initial opportunity to fill in this weekend. Though the report suggests that Willis could see playing time versus Atlanta, the possibility of a time-share tilted in Levis' favor diminishes Willis' potential to make a fantasy impact Sunday.

Willis completed four of five passes for 74 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in Sunday's 24-16 loss to the Ravens. He added three rushes for 17 yards.

Willis entered the game in relief of an injured Ryan Tannehill (ankle) early in the fourth quarter and led a comeback effort for the Titans. His stat line looks positive, though he benefitted significantly from a 48-yard catch and run from Tyjae Spears that came almost entirely after the catch. While Willis showed off some ability with his legs, he also took four sacks that ultimately stalled a long drive. The Titans will head into a bye week, which will give Tannehill the opportunity to get healthy. However, it's also possible that Willis or Wil Levis will line up for a Week 8 start against the Falcons.

Willis is active and will serve as the No. 2 quarterback behind Ryan Tannehill, Joe Rexrode of The Athletic reports.

Willis and rookie second-round pick Will Levis were competing for the top backup spot during preseason action, and it appears the former has won the job for now, as the latter is a healthy scratch for Week 1. Willis struggled in limited action last year but will be the first man up if Tannehill is sidelined again in 2023.

Willis completed 15 of 20 passes for 211 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions in Friday's 23-7 preseason win over New England.

Ryan Tannehill played three snaps without throwing a pass attempt, while Will Levis (thigh) was held out entirely despite saying Wednesday that he expected to be ready. Willis surprisingly ran for only 17 yards despite playing the entire night after the first drive, instead providing an entertaining mix of good and bad plays with his right arm. He and Levis have been competing for the No. 2 QB job this summer, and the winner heading into Week 1 won't necessarily retain the spot throughout the season.

Willis completed 10 of 17 passes for 85 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's 24-16 preseason win over the Vikings. He added 11 rushes for 91 yards.

Willis was the only Titans quarterback to take the field, and he got a lot of valuable reps in the process. His results were inconsistent as he missed a couple open receivers and also threw a pick, though he also showed more poise in the pocket and delivered a number of accurate passes down the field. Willis also showcased his rushing ability, providing multiple paths to big plays. He is battling Will Levis (lower body) for the backup quarterback job and has taken a step forward as he heads into his second professional season.

Willis is expected to be under center for the Titans for the entirety of Saturday's exhibition game against the Vikings, Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reports.

Willis' big workload comes at the expense of Will Levis, who is dealing with a lower body issue. As a result, the second-year signal caller will get an opportunity to showcase his talents for a full game. He completed 16 of 25 passes for 189 yards and one interception in Tennessee's opening preseason contest against the Bears, while adding 22 yards and one touchdown across three carries on the ground. Willis alternated possessions with Levis in that contest.

Willis completed 16 of 25 pass attempts for 189 yards and one interception in Tennessee's preseason game against Chicago on Saturday, adding 22 yards and one touchdown on three carries.

Willis started but then rotated series with second-round pick rookie Will Levis, who finished 9-of-14 for 85 yards and an interception. Both quarterbacks struggled to handle the pass rush, as each was sacked four times. It's not clear what this game means for the competition between Willis and Levis behind starter Ryan Tannehill, but it seems safe to say that Willis had the better production in this game. Levis only had a six-yard carry as a runner, and he incurred four sacks on just 14 attempts, which looks worse than Willis' four sacks versus 25 attempts. The competition figures to be ongoing.

Willis is expected to start Saturday's preseason game versus the Bears, but he'll likely rotate series with Will Levis, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Ryan Tannehill is still viewed as the Titans' starting quarterback, so he'll take a seat for the team's first exhibition contest. In his stead, Willis, a 2022 third-round pick, will take the field first, but he's slated to split work with Levis, a rookie second-round pick. Willis has a high upside, but he struggled in limited action last year, completing just 51 percent of his passes while throwing three picks and zero touchdowns.

Willis remains the No. 2 quarterback in the immediate aftermath of the draft, but he will have to earn the role moving forward, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The Titans selected Willis in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, so to call his future with the team into question appears drastic on the surface. However, after he struggled immensely in limited action as a rookie, Tennessee opted to spend an early second-round selection on Will Levis in this year's draft. Ryan Tannehill remains the clear starter for the time being, though coach Mike Vrabel said that he will let the players' performances dictate their spot on the depth chart as the season draws closer. As a result, Willis is heading into a pivotal time for his pro career, even though he's entering only his second season.

Willis remains the backup quarterback in the immediate aftermath of the draft, but he will have to earn the role moving forward, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The Titans selected Willis in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, so to call his future with the team into question appears drastic on the surface. However, after he struggled immensely in limited action as a rookie, Tennessee opted to spend an early second-round selection on Will Levis in the 2023 draft. Ryan Tannehill remains the clear starter for the time being, though coach Mike Vrabel said that he will let the player's performance dictate their spot on the depth chart as the season draws closer. As a result, Willis is heading into a pivotal time for his pro career, even though he's entering only his second season.

Willis will operate as the backup quarterback behind Joshua Dobbs for Saturday's regular season finale against Jacksonville, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

With Ryan Tannehill (ankle) on injured reserve, Willis drew the start in Week 16, but he threw two interceptions and was benched for Week 17. While the Titans lost to Dallas last Thursday, Vrabel said he was encouraged by the way Dobbs played and is confident in the veteran backup's ability. Willis is a rookie third-round pick and figures to have a future in Tennessee, but barring an injury, it appears like he'll be relegated to bench duties for the remainder of the 2022 campaign.

Coach Mike Vrabel is still deciding whether Willis or Joshua Dobbs will start the regular season finale against the Jaguars, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

The Titans went with Dobbs against Dallas on Thursday, and the 27-year-old quarterback threw for a respectable 232 yards with one touchdown and two turnovers in the 27-13 loss. Willis is more capable of making plays with his legs, but the rookie third-round pick out of Liberty failed to break triple digits in passing yards in any of his first three NFL starts. Needing a Week 18 win to make the postseason, the Titans will prioritize winning now over any future development, which seems to give Dobbs the inside track given Willis' struggles as a passer to date.

The Titans are expected to start Josh Dobbs rather than Willis in Thursday night's game against the Cowboys, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network and Adam Schefter of ESPN report.

With Ryan Tannehill (ankle) already ruled out for the contest, it looks like the Titans are in line to start Dobbs, with the team likely to rest a number of key players with an eye toward being as healthy as possible for a looming AFC South title showdown against the Jaguars in Week 18.

Willis will start Thursday's game against Dallas with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) ruled out again, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Tannehill won't return until the playoffs, if at all this season, and Willis' performance so far doesn't inspire confidence in the Titans making it beyond Week 18. Their game this Thursday is all but meaningless in terms of the AFC playoff picture, which probably explains why Derrick Henry (hip) and a slew of other key players are either listed as doubtful or out (to be fair, some of them have missed game recent games). With that in mind, the Titans could let Willis take more shots, even against a tough Dallas defense, as their playoff fortunes are almost certain to depend on the result Week 18 at Jacksonville and nothing else.

Willis completed 14 of 23 passes for 99 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions in Saturday's 19-14 loss to the Texans. He added seven rushes for 43 yards and a touchdown.

Willis drew his fourth start of the season with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) sidelined, but he struggled to get the Titans' offense moving. He averaged only 4.3 yards per attempt and his longest completion of the day went for just 14 yards. In addition, Willis threw a pair of interceptions, the first of which came on a potential game-winning drive inside Houston territory late in the fourth quarter. Positively, he did tally a 14-yard rushing score midway through the third quarter. While that hinted at his potential to excel, Willis' outlook for the final two games of the regular season is not positive.

Willis is expected to start Saturday's game against the Texans as well as the Titans' Week 17 matchup with the Cowboys next Thursday while Ryan Tannehill (ankle) is sidelined through at least Week 18 after undergoing a surgical procedure earlier this week, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com reports.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Tannehill had a tightrope procedure on his right ankle after he suffered the injury during the Titans' first possession of last week's loss to the Chargers. Though Tannehill missed just one series before checking back in and finishing out the game, he didn't practice in any fashion this week after opting for surgery. Rapoport relays that a three-week recovery timeline typically represents a best-case scenario for these kind of procedures, but Schefter reports that Tannehill is still viewed as a "long shot" for a Week 18 matchup with the Jaguars, a game that could determine the AFC South champion. At least for the next two weeks, the Titans will have to turn to Willis, who previously started for an injured Tannehill in Weeks 8 and 9. Though the Titans beat the Texans and lost to the Chiefs in overtime during that two-game stretch, Willis wasn't asked to do much while Tennessee leaned heavily on running back Derrick Henry. Willis attempted just 26 total passes in those

Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Thursday that Willis will start Saturday's game against the Texans with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) ruled out for the contest, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

For the time being, Tennessee has ruled Tannehill out only for the Week 16 contest, but Turron Davenport of ESPN.com reported Wednesday that the Titans' top signal-caller is "very likely" done for the season due to a right ankle injury that is expected to require surgery. Tannehill's absence sets up Willis to make his third start of the season, including his second against the Texans, which came back in the two teams' previous matchup in Week 8. During Willis' prior two-game run as the starter, the Titans leaned heavily on running back Derrick Henry, with the rookie signal-caller attempting just 26 total passes and accounting for only 135 yards the air between a win over Houston and a Week 9 loss to Kansas City. The speedy Willis at least proved to be more of a threat on the ground, rushing 13 times for 52 yards in those games. While his rushing ability gives him some theoretical fantasy upside, Willis' lack of reliable passing volume makes it difficult to justify starting him in one-quarterback lineups.

Willis completed three of four passes for 20 yards and gained eight rushing yards on one carry in Sunday's 17-14 loss to the Chargers.

The rookie was pressed into action in the first quarter when Ryan Tannehill was carted back to the locker room with an ankle injury, but the Titans' starting QB was able to return to the lineup before halftime, putting Willis back on the sideline. He's gotten snaps in seven games so far this season, but Willis is still looking for his first NFL touchdown, either through the air or on the ground.

Willis completed two of four passes for 16 yards in Sunday's 35-10 loss to the Eagles. He also ran the ball once for eight yards.

Willis entered the game almost exactly halfway through the fourth quarter with the Titans down 25 points. He primarily handed the ball off to Julius Chestnut, though he did connect with Dontrell Hilliard for a gain of 10 yards and C.J. Board for a gain of six yards. Willis will remain the backup to close the 2022 season unless Ryan Tannehill becomes unavailable.

Willis will return to a backup role Sunday against the Broncos with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) active for the contest and cleared to start, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

While Tannehill was sidelined for the past two weeks, Willis started but handled little more than a caretaker role while the Titans leaned even more heavily into the Derrick Henry-led ground attack. Willis showed some rushing upside of his own by carrying 13 times for 52 yards in games against the Texans and Chiefs in Weeks 8 and 9, respectively, but he showed little polish as a passer, completing just 11 of 26 attempts for 135 yards and an interception. So long as Tannehill stays healthy the rest of the way, Willis' remaining opportunities this season will likely come in garbage-time situations late in games.

Willis completed just five of 16 pass attempts for 80 yards and rushed eight times for 40 yards in Sunday's 20-17 overtime loss to Kansas City.

Willis was thrust into another start with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) still unavailable due to injury. The rookie performed better than his mediocre stat line would suggest, as he was able to protect the ball and provide enough of a threat with his legs to allow Derrick Henry (17/115/2) to eat. Willis' inexperience showed down the stretch when he suffered a couple of drive-killing sacks while trying to extend broken plays. Ryan Tannehill was questionable leading up to this primetime loss, so the the third-round pick may find himself back at No. 2 on the quarterback depth chart for next Sunday's tilt against the Broncos. If the former is unable to go, Willis should be treated as a low-end fantasy option based on his poor results over his two emergency starts.

With Ryan Tannehill (ankle) inactive for Sunday night's game against the Chiefs, Willis is in line for his second consecutive start at QB for the Titans, Turron Davenport of ESPN reports.

In last weekend's 17-10 win over the Texans, Willis completed 6-of-10 passing attempts for 55 yards with one interception and no TDs, while adding five carries for 12 yards in a contest in which the Titans leaned heavily on running back Derrick Henry. A similar approach could once again be in order Sunday if game flow allows for it, though Willis should throw more frequently than he did against Houston. With that in mind, the 2022 third-rounder is a speculative fantasy option in Week 9 against the 5-2 Chiefs, but the rookie does at least represent an alternative for those who normally rely on Tannehill or who are seeking short-term help in QB-heavy formats, with six NFL teams currently on bye.

Willis took most of the first-team reps in practice this week and could be on tap for another start Sunday in Kansas City with Ryan Tannehill (ankle) listed as questionable for the contest but uncertain to be available, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Though Tannehill traveled to Kansas City and is being treated as a game-time decision, Rapoport relays that the quarterback was "very, very limited" in practice this week after sitting out the Titans' Week 8 win over the Texans. While Tannehill plans to do everything he can to play, Rapoport suggests that there's "not a lot of optimism" the veteran signal-caller will be ready to play. With that in mind, Willis may be primed for a second consecutive start, but the Titans would undoubtedly prefer to lean heavily on the Derrick Henry-led ground attack for as long as the game flow allows for it. Even so, keeping pace with the Chiefs' prolific offense won't be an easy task, so if Willis starts, expect him to drop back more frequently than he did last week, when he attempted just 10 passes. While the rookie is unproven as a passer at the NFL, Willis demonstrated elite rushing ability in college and during the preseason, so he could have some intrigue in leagues that start two quarterbacks or have a QB flex lineup s

Willis completed six of 10 passes for 55 yards and an interception while adding 12 rushing yards on five carries in Sunday's 17-10 win over the Texans.

The 2022 third-round pick didn't look ready for prime time in his first career start and failed to make an impact with his arm or his legs. Fortunately for Willis and the Titans, Derrick Henry was once again trampling the Texans defense into the dirt, and they didn't need the rookie QB to do much. Ryan Tannehill (ankle) could be ready to return next week, but if he isn't Willis will need to raise his game significantly in a road matchup against Kansas City.

Willis is expected to start Sunday against the Texans with Ryan Tannehill (illness/ankle) officially unable to play, Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official site reports.

Tannehill started each of the Titans' past 49 games, but with the veteran on the mend due to an ankle sprain and also struggling with an illness, the team will turn to the 2022 third-round pick to make his first career start. It's possible Willis could actually improve a passing attack that currently ranks 25th in the NFL given Houston's defense will have to account for the rookie's explosiveness as a runner, but it's also fair to point out Willis' struggles throughout the preseason, which account for his only real action at the NFL level. Expect a heavy dose of Derrick Henry to help Willis ease his way into the contest to start, but provided the Titans uncork the athletic weapon, the Liberty product could be in for an intriguing fantasy day.

Willis took reps with the first-team offense at Friday's practice and would be in line to start Sunday against the Texans if Ryan Tannehill (ankle) -- who is listed as questionable for the contest -- is unable to play, Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com reports.

Tannehill has started each of the Titans' last 49 games, but his availability for Week 8 is in jeopardy after he missed a pair of practices this week -- including Friday's session -- while managing a right ankle injury. According to McCormick, head coach Mike Vrabel said that the Titans will likely wait as long as possible to see how Tannehill heals up from the injury before determining the quarterback's availability for Sunday's contest, so Tannehill is seemingly trending toward a game-time decision ahead of the 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff. If Tannehill is inactive this weekend or dresses an emergency backup, Willis, a rookie third-round pick out of Liberty, would at least make for an intriguing option in DFS contests or in two-quarterback or superflex season-long leagues. Willis has taken just 19 regular-season snaps, but the dual-threat signal-caller turned some heads in the preseason with 28 completions for 318 yards and two touchdowns on 51 attempts while amassing 159 yards and a score on 14 carries.

Willis completed one of four passes for six yards to go along with no touchdowns and no interceptions in Monday's 41-7 loss to the Bills. He added four rushes for 16 yards.

Willis played the final 19 minutes of the game, entering in relief of Ryan Tannehill in the midst of the blowout loss. He struggled with his accuracy as a passer -- his lone completion went to Austin Hooper -- and also lost a fumble. On the other hand, he did show his potential as a rusher, one of the factors that made him an intriguing prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite Ryan Tannehill's early struggles, Willis will almost certainly remain the backup for the majority -- if not the entirety -- of the campaign.

Willis completed 15 of 23 passes for 131 yards, a touchdown and an interception in Saturday's 26-23 preseason win over Arizona. He added four rushes for 79 yards.

Willis had his most impressive statistical performance of the preseason, and he delivered a few highlight-reel plays in the process. Early in the second quarter, he escaped from the pocket and ripped off a 50-yard gain on the ground, which set up a touchdown plunge from Julius Chestnut. Three possessions later, he capped off an eight-play, 60-yard drive on an impressive 14-yard touchdown throw to fellow rookie Treylon Burks during which he dropped his arm slot to fit the ball through defenders at the line. Willis has had an inconsistent preseason, but he has shown glimpses of the promise that he showed while a prospect for the NFL Draft.

Willis is expected to start Saturday's preseason contest against the Cardinals, Paul Kuharsky of PaulKuharsky.com reports.

This shouldn't come as a surprise as the Titans have been cautious with incumbent starter Ryan Tannehill. The rookie third-round pick has had an up-and-down preseason, showing impressive flashes of talent during both of the preseason games to date while struggling with pocket awareness. Expect Willis to play a substantial amount in the first half as the Titans continue to evaluate their mobile QB.

Willis completed seven of 17 pass attempts for 80 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions and rushed five times for 42 yards during the Titans' 13-3 preseason win over the Buccaneers on Saturday night.

Willis started the game as expected with Ryan Tannehill getting the night off and was consistently frustrated early, as the Titans turned it over on downs and punted twice apiece in their first four possessions while gaining a total of just 34 yards. However, Willis subsequently helped lead a 13-play, 78-yard march that ended in a Randy Bullock field goal and then threw a six-yard touchdown toss to Chigoziem Okonkwo just before halftime. The rookie third-round pick took another three sacks as well, so it's clear he has plenty of work to do when it comes to pocket awareness and accuracy while working as Tannehill's understudy this coming season. Willis should get another solid allotment of playing time with which to continue working out the kinks next Saturday night against the Cardinals in Tennessee's preseason finale.

Willis will start at quarterback in Saturday's preseason game against Tampa Bay, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reports.

Willis had an up-and-down pro debut in Baltimore last week, mixing highlights with questionable decisions. Coach Mike Vrabel criticized the rookie for scrambling around too much, but Willis nonetheless will play ahead of Logan Woodside again Saturday night.

Willis completed six of 11 passes for 107 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions and rushed five times for 38 yards and a score in the Titans' 23-10 preseason loss to the Ravens on Thursday night.

Willis' night started slowly with three incompletions and a pair of three-play, five-yard drives sandwiched around a one-play possession that ended in a Julius Chestnut fumble. However, the rookie hit his stride from that point, completing six of his last eight attempts, the highlight of those throws a 48-yard completion to Racey McMath early in the second quarter on a drive that culminated in a field goal. Willis' rushing score, a seven-yard jaunt on the prior possession, was also a thing of beauty, as he reversed direction and beat multiple defenders to the end zone with speed and a nifty cutback move to get past the goal line. The high-upside third-round pick did take two sacks and naturally needs plenty more seasoning at the pro level, but in his first half of NFL action, he already flashed the strong arm and elite mobility that endeared him to to the organization. Willis' first opportunity to build on a strong initial performance comes in a preseason home matchup against the Buccaneers a week from Saturd

Willis is slated to start Thursday's preseason game at Baltimore, Paul Kuharsky of PaulKuharsky.com reports.

With starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill in line to sit out the Titans' exhibition opener, Willis and Logan Woodside will split QB duties, earning roughly a half of work apiece, per Jim Wyatt of the team's official site. Willis, a third-round pick in this year's draft, is getting the first shot to lead the offense and will have rookie first-round wide receiver Treylon Burks at his disposal as well.

The Titans selected Willis in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 86th overall.

Willis was expected to be a first-round pick, so while that assumption was off the mark, this still looks like a good pick for the Titans. Willis (6-foot-1, 219 pounds) had accuracy and processing issues at Liberty, but the coaching and surrounding personnel there were lacking to the point that underdevelopment might be the issue more than a lack of ability. If Willis can sharpen his reads and accuracy, he otherwise has substantial athletic tools to work with, including running ability that might match any quarterback aside from Lamar Jackson. Ryan Tannehill is naturally locked in as Tennessee's starting quarterback in the short term, but Willis now profiles as his successor.