4 critical observations from Malik Willis at the 2022 NFL Combine
By Dean Jones
Malik Willis has some elite arm strength
This was not up for discussion, in all honesty. Malik Willis has already proven his arm strength is NFL-ready, with the quarterback demonstrating his prowess in difficult weather conditions to stand out considerably at the 2022 Senior Bowl.
There were some NFL front office personnel and head coaches seeing this for the first time at the NFL Scouting Combine. Simply put, Willis blew them away with an almost effortless velocity and accuracy moving the football downfield.
The Carolina Panthers have sorely lacked consistency under center during the Matt Rhule era. Their next decision will be critical and Willis definitely showed he has what it takes to thrive at the next level providing he gets additional time to work on decision-making and going through reads quickly in the pocket.
Successful teams will always bet on high ceiling traits rather than pro-ready talents who might not progress much further talent-wise in the NFL.
The likes of Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen are prime examples of this. Even though Willis might not reach these heights, there is a lot to like about his long-term prospects in the right fit with a patient coaching staff that can maximize his undeniable athletic attributes.
Willis couldn’t have done anymore to enhance his stock during the evaluation process. And he’ll get one more chance to convince the Panthers at his pro day.