NFL Update: Former Raiders’ standout tight end Darren Waller announces retirement
Former Raiders’ star tight end Darren Waller has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 31. Waller, who was traded to the New York Giants in March 2023, is stepping away from the sport after a season plagued by injuries.
In the trade, the Raiders received a third-round pick, which they used to draft wide receiver Tre Tucker. The trade also freed up $11.4 million in salary-cap space, which helped the Raiders sign wide receiver Jakobi Meyers in free agency.
Waller’s career was significantly impacted by injuries, causing him to miss eight games in 2022 and six games in 2021. He had only 28 receptions in his last season with the Raiders and missed five games with the Giants, recording 52 catches.
Before his injury troubles, Waller was a formidable player. In 2020, he set a Raiders’ team record with 107 receptions and had 90 catches the previous season.
Waller’s career has been notably impacted by injuries in recent years. He missed eight games in 2022 and six games in 2021 while with the Raiders. In his final season with the Raiders, Waller recorded only 28 receptions. His tenure with the Giants was similarly challenging, as he missed five games and managed 52 catches.
Waller’s journey to stardom was remarkable, overcoming substance abuse and long NFL suspensions. The Raiders discovered him on the Baltimore practice squad in 2018, recognizing his potential during pre-game warmups.