They're not even trying to hide it.
The Miami Dolphins have made their stance on Malik Willis crystal clear, with GM Jon-Eric Sullivan, whom they hired from the Green Bay Packers this offseason, confirming their interest.
"Any team in a quarterback-needy situation that tells you they're not talking about Malik Willis, that would be a lie," Sullivan told reporters at the combine on Tuesday, via Cheesehead TV's Aaron Nagler.
The Dolphins likely won't be the only team with Packers connections interested in Willis, but it now feels inevitable where he will sign.
The Green Bay Packers losing Malik Willis to the Miami Dolphins now feels inevitable
It's not just what Sullivan said about Willis, but also his comments on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Sullivan said "everything is on table" with Tagovailoa, including trading him this offseason.
The new regime clearly plans to make a quarterback change, and if there are two people who know what Willis could bring to Miami, it's Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley. It just makes so much sense.
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Hafley spoke about wanting to run the ball, which is why the Dolphins will likely prioritize their offensive line this offseason. They already have an elite running back in De'Von Achane, while rookie Ollie Gordon II showed promise as an ideal No. 2. As Packers fans saw over the past two seasons, Willis' presence on the field could open up the run game.
He rushed for 261 yards and three touchdowns on 42 attempts with the Packers, but it goes beyond that. Defenses know how dangerous he can be, so they must always prepare for that possibility. It creates space for the running backs to take advantage.
Willis would also inherit a talented receiving corps led by Jaylen Waddle. The Dolphins just released Tyreek Hill, so they need to add another pass-catcher this offseason (Romeo Doubs?), but there is talent to work with.
The pieces are in place for Willis in Miami. On top of that, Sullivan will follow the Packers' roster-building philosophies and prioritize building his supporting cast. It just makes too much sense.
Other teams will show interest, but the Dolphins made their stance clear. Willis to Miami now feels clearer than ever once free agency begins in two weeks.