Malik Willis proved that hard work and good character really do pay off — just ask Packers star running back Josh Jacobs.
Jacobs and Willis go way back to their college rivalry days — Jacobs at Alabama, Willis at Auburn. They clashed in two Iron Bowls, but now they’re on the same side, and Jacobs couldn’t be more impressed with how Willis has grown.
After a rocky start with the Titans, where Willis struggled to get going, Green Bay gave him a fresh start just after the 2024 preseason ended. The Packers needed a backup for Jordan Love, and Willis stepped up — fast.
With barely three weeks of practice under his belt, Willis got tossed into a starting role thanks to a knee injury to Love. And he delivered — leading Green Bay to wins over the Colts and Titans. In total, Willis played in seven games, throwing for 550 yards and three touchdowns with no picks, and running for another 138 yards and a score. Not bad for a guy many had written off.
Jacobs couldn’t say enough good things about Willis, calling him a humble, hard-working guy who never makes it about himself. “He’s just one of those dudes you stay friends with for life,” Jacobs said on the Bussin’ with the Boys podcast.
Jacobs also gave credit to coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers’ staff for making the game click for Willis. According to Jacobs, Willis told him this is the first time he’s actually felt like he was being taught how to play quarterback. The simpler approach helped him relax and ball out, reminding him of his college days.
And ball out he did — surprising fans and probably a few front offices too. Jacobs even joked Willis might not be sticking around long if he keeps playing like that: “You’re playing so good, man, some team might just come calling. You might get your shot again.”
Willis’ journey from Auburn backup to Liberty star and Titans pick to Green Bay breakout is one wild ride. And with teammates like Jacobs in his corner, it might just be getting started.
