Packers Considering Quarterback Trade After Losing Malik Willis

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 12:01 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers are in need of a reliable backup quarterback now that Malik Willis is heading to the Miami Dolphins.

As soon as the legal tampering window opened up on Monday, the Dolphins agreed to a three-year, $67.5 million contract with Willis. He only made three starts for the Packers over the past two seasons, but he still had 972 passing yards, 261 rushing yards and nine total touchdowns. Apparently, he showed enough to receive $45 million fully guaranteed from Miami's front office.

With Willis no longer in the picture, Green Bay's coaching staff may take a chance on another potential-packed gunslinger. According to ESPN's Stephen Holder, the Packers are interested in Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson.

The Colts already gave Richardson, the No. 4 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, permission to seek a trade.

"Update on Colts QB Anthony Richardson, who is available via trade. No deal is imminent, per multiple sources. There are interested teams, but the dust is still settling from free agency. One particular team to monitor: the Green Bay Packers," Holder said. "Richardson, who has been given permission by the Colts to seek out a deal, would be attracted to a situation that pairs him with a proven QB developer. There are several coaches out there that check that box, including Matt LaFleur."

The Packers would most likely have to part with a Day 3 pick in order to acquire Richardson.

Aug 16, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. (5) during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images© Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

Perfect fit for Anthony Richardson?

Before the new league year even started, NFL.com's David Carr mentioned Green Bay as an ideal landing spot for Richardson.

"Malik Willis developed greatly as a backup for two seasons under Matt LaFleur in Green Bay, and now, he's in line to earn a second starting opportunity in free agency," Carr wrote. "If Willis does sign with another team, Green Bay would be a great fit for Richardson, who would no doubt benefit learning from LaFleur and working behind Jordan Love. The former first-round QB has the talent to play in this league and could be the next quarterback to resurrect his career if he lands in the right system."

We've already seen Willis thrive in LaFleur's system. It wouldn't surprise us at all if Richardson goes to Green Bay and revitalizes his career.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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