Tight end Darren Waller is returning to the NFL just months after announcing his retirement, and he’s doing so with a new team. The Miami Dolphins have acquired Waller in a trade with the New York Giants, who still held his playing rights. In exchange, Miami will send a 2026 sixth-round pick to New York and receive a conditional 2027 seventh-round pick alongside the veteran tight end. Waller has agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $5 million as part of the deal.
Waller, 32, stepped away from football earlier this year, citing health concerns and a desire to explore interests outside the sport, including music. A former Pro Bowler with the Las Vegas Raiders, he amassed over 4,100 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns across his eight-year career. His return comes at a crucial time for the Dolphins, who recently traded tight end Jonnu Smith to the Steelers, leaving a gap at the position. Waller’s comeback offers Miami a proven playmaker to bolster its offensive arsenal heading into the 2025 season.
