The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their season opener against the Indianapolis Colts, and tight end Darren Waller is focused on shaking off the rust after returning from retirement. The 32-year-old player, who previously played for the New York Giants, is adjusting to the demands of professional football once again after stepping away from the game in 2024.
Waller made headlines when he announced his return in July 2024, following a trade to the Dolphins from the Giants. During a recent training camp session, he expressed the challenges of reacclimating to the sport’s physical, mental, and emotional aspects. “Got to knock some rust off,” Waller stated, adding, “But I’m just grateful to be where I’m at today.”
To regain his form, Waller plans to work closely with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the lead-up to the season. He emphasized the importance of building chemistry with Tagovailoa, saying, “Just getting reps, getting time under tension, knowing how he’s getting the ball off when he hits his drop.” He acknowledged that this process is essential for him to adapt to the rhythm of the offense: “What that looks like for me, whip my head around and having that ball come in, which I felt like was a great start today.”
Waller’s impressive track record includes two seasons with over 1,000 yards receiving in 2019 and 2020 while playing for the Oakland and Las Vegas Raiders, where he earned a Pro Bowl nomination in 2020. In 2023, he recorded 53 receptions for 552 yards and a touchdown with the Giants. While he may not be expected to replicate his earlier 1,000-yard seasons, Waller brings a significant threat alongside playmakers such as Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
As the Dolphins prepare for the Colts, one concern raised during training camp has been the team’s toughness, particularly observed during joint practices against the Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions. Waller’s physical presence and experience could play a vital role in enhancing the team’s competitive edge.
With the season fast approaching, Waller remains committed to refining his performance. “It’s just time, just continuing to grind at it and those things start to become second nature,” he remarked, signaling his determination to contribute effectively to the Dolphins’ offense as they embark on their quest for success in the upcoming season.
