A year ago, the New York Giants traded for Darren Waller, hoping he could help solve their glaring needs for a gamebreaking weapon who could take pressure off Daniel Jones. Waller’s first season in the Big Apple was mired by injuries, which has been a common theme in the former receiver turned tight end’s career.
Despite previously being named to the Pro Bowl team, Waller will turn 32 before the 2024 NFL season kicks off, and it’s possible we’ve seen the last of him on a football field.
Darren Waller admits he’s contemplating retirement
Last offseason, New York Giants general manager swapped the 100th pick for Darren Waller. At the time, the move was viewed as a steal. After all, the Giants could greatly benefit from adding a seam-stretching tight end to their offense, with Daniel Bellinger stepping into a backup role.
However, Waller only started 11 games. Yet, he did still rack up a respectable 552 receiving yards, but just one touchdown on 52 receptions. Now, it’s possible he’s considering hanging up his cleats for good.
Waller revealed to the New York Post that he’s “still undecided” about playing football in 2024. While the Giants have since spoken to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, and apparently came away believing the tight end would return for a second season, Waller insists he has yet to make a decision on his playing future.
“I have not made a decision either way.”
Darren Waller having second thoughts about his playing future
Waller is due a base salary of $10.5 million in 2024 and would cost the Giants $14 million against their salary cap if he continues to play, barring a contract restructure. While the Giants have made it clear that they hope their starting tight end returns for a chance to have a bounce-back season, that doesn’t appear to be set in stone.