In his first start at Kansas, a Big 12 conference game versus the Baylor Bears, Willis broke his career high in passing, throwing 158 yards, on 20 completions and 36 attempts, and one touchdown.

In a near win versus the 15th ranked TCU Horned Frogs, Willis threw 20–41 passes for 203 yards and a touchdown.

In 2018, Willis has appeared in two games and made his first start at Virginia Tech at #22 Duke in Durham after an injury to incumbent starter Josh Jackson.

[9] On December 25, he was "flexed" to the Bears' active roster to back up starter Nick Foles against the Seattle Seahawks.

[13][14] On February 8, 2023, Willis signed with the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League (USFL).