In an inspiring display of faith and resilience, Green Bay Packers backup quarterback Malik Willis seized his moment on Sunday, not only leading his team to victory but also using the opportunity to glorify God. Filling in for injured starter Jordan Love, Willis showcased both his athleticism and his unwavering commitment to his Christian faith, making it clear that every opportunity he receives is a chance to praise the One who guides him.
Willis led the Packers to a 16-10 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, completing 12 of 14 passes for 122 yards and one touchdown. His performance, which also included 41 rushing yards, helped the Packers even their record at 1-1. For Willis, though, the most important takeaway from the game was not the victory itself but the opportunity to use his platform to glorify God.
“It feels awesome,” Willis told a national television audience on Fox after the game. “I’ve just got to give all the glory to God for giving me this opportunity.”
Thankful for another opportunity to glorify God ?? ?TGFE
The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. Nahum 1:7
— Malik Willis (@malikwillis) September 15, 2024
Willis has been vocal about his faith throughout his career, consistently pointing to God as the source of his strength and motivation. Whether on the field or off, he remains grounded in his Christian beliefs, often sharing Scripture and faith-centered messages with his followers. His social media bio on X (formerly Twitter) is simple but profound: “Glory to God.” After Sunday’s victory, he again took to X, writing, “Thankful for another opportunity to glorify God. TGFE (Thank God for everything).”
In the same post, Willis shared Nahum 1:7: “The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” His faith in God’s goodness and strength, especially during challenging times, is what guides him through the highs and lows of his career. For Willis, the ups and downs of football are merely opportunities to lean further into his faith.
Despite his impressive performance, Willis remained humble and focused on improvement during post-game interviews. When asked if he was proud of his efforts, he responded with characteristic humility: “I don’t get proud. We’ve got a lot to work on, obviously, and we’ve just got to continue to get better and work hard.”
This attitude of humility, combined with a commitment to hard work, has defined Willis throughout his career. Drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2022 out of Liberty University, a Christian institution where his faith was further nurtured, Willis was traded to the Packers in the offseason. The move to Green Bay provided him with what he described as “a clean slate” and another opportunity to glorify God.
“I’m just grateful for God giving me another opportunity — somewhere different, a clean slate,” Willis said during a post-game news conference. His gratitude for new beginnings is a reflection of his belief that God is orchestrating his steps, even when the path takes unexpected turns.
Willis’ deep-rooted faith was evident long before he entered the NFL. In 2022, when asked why he plays the game with so much joy, Willis pointed to his faith as the reason behind his love for football and his desire to inspire others.
“I’m blessed to do it,” he told Titans broadcaster Mike Keith in an interview. “God’s put me in a position where I can use my platform to glorify Him and just bring people closer to Him — and just give joy to other people.”
For Willis, football is not just a career; it’s a ministry. He views his platform as a way to share his faith and touch the lives of those who watch him play. “I enjoy playing the game because I’m blessed with the ability. So I get to go use what God blessed me with and impact other people and just make them happy,” he said.
Willis’ joy on the field is contagious, and it comes from his understanding that his talents are a gift from God. By using those talents, he hopes to inspire others to recognize the blessings in their own lives and to turn their attention to God.
As the Packers look ahead to the rest of the season, Willis remains committed to his role on the team, whether it’s starting under center or supporting from the sidelines. His primary focus, however, will always be on using every opportunity to glorify God.
“We’ll see where Jordan’s at [health-wise] and continue to prepare,” Willis said, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his role in the future. But whatever comes next, Willis is ready to embrace it with the same faith, humility, and determination that have carried him this far.