The Miami Dolphins have made an unexpected move to strengthen their tight end position by trading for veteran Darren Waller, who is coming out of retirement after a year off. This trade comes after the Dolphins sent tight end Jonnu Smith to Pittsburgh earlier this week.
The Trade Details
According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, Miami is sending a 2026 sixth-round pick and a 2027 conditional seventh-round pick to the New York Giants in exchange for Waller. Despite retiring in 2024, Waller’s rights were still held by the Giants.
As part of the deal, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Waller will sign a one-year contract worth up to $5 million with the Dolphins.
Waller’s Career Recap
Waller, who turns 33 in September, has been a standout tight end in the NFL. He rose to prominence with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2019, catching 90 passes for 1,145 yards and three touchdowns. He followed that up with an even better 2020 season, posting 107 catches for 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns.
However, injuries plagued Waller in 2021 and 2022, and he was traded to the Giants in 2023. During his single season in New York, Waller played in just 12 games, catching 52 passes for 552 yards and one touchdown. After the season, he made the decision to retire.
Waller’s Return to the NFL
Now, Waller is coming out of retirement to join the Dolphins. He will join a group of tight ends already on the Dolphins’ roster, including Pharaoh Brown, Tanner Conner, Jalin Conyers, Julian Hill, and Hayden Rucci.
Waller’s experience and skill set could be a valuable addition to Miami’s offense, particularly if he can stay healthy and return to his previous form.
