The Miami Dolphins are hopeful that Malik Willis can turn around their struggling NFL franchise, but if his recent MLB first pitch was any indicator of future success then that could spell trouble.

Willis signed a monster contract with the Dolphins this offseason after moving over from the Green Bay Packers. The NFL veteran received a $67.5 million deal from Miami, including over $47 million in guaranteed money.

MORE: NFL teams shouldn’t reward Brendan Sorsby after severe gambling allegations

However, Willis’ recent first pitch at the Miami Marlins game has NFL fans second-guessing the Dolphins’ decision. Many athletes and celebrities receive the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch during games.

The NFL quarterback will certainly want his back though after delivering a missile that came nowhere close to crossing the plate. A viral video surfaced Friday prior to the Marlins’ game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

How bad was NFL star’s first pitch effort?

Musicians like Mariah Carey, 50 Cent and Carly Rae Jepsen delivered iconic MLB moments after suffering the wrath of trying to throw from the mound. Meanwhile, other athletes have also been mocked for their lack of throwing ability.

That includes former NBA star John Wall, Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan and Olympian Carl Lewis. However, Willis’ poor showing won’t make Dolphins fans any happier heading into the 2026 NFL season.

Miami didn’t invest as much as other teams typically do at the quarterback position, but the Dolphins are still expecting a lot from Willis as the franchise rebuilds without Tua Tagovailoa.

In fairness to Willis, his first pitch failure doesn’t come close to those that came before him like 50 Cent. However, the fact that he is an NFL quarterback certainly sways public opinion a bit more.

MORE: Which 2026 NFL Draft picks are selling the most jerseys?

Last season, Willis proved that he’s capable of being an NFL starter after replacing Jordan Love in Green Bay during several injury spells. Willis stepped in and threw six touchdown passes over the past two years for the Packers, while adding three more rushing touchdowns.

The 26-year-old quarterback is now on his third team after being drafted by the Tennessee Titans, though.

That means the dual-threat signal caller is simply running out of opportunities at the professional level. Miami and Willis appear to need each other in order to revitalize their standing in the league.

Perhaps Willis’ ugly MLB first pitch showing will give him some added motivation heading into this NFL season. Although, the initial sting of his poor throw might end up lingering for a bit longer after the online mockery.