Despite having the opportunity to free up a nice chunk of salary cap space, the New York Giants are doubling down on the decision to trade for oft-injured tight end Darren Waller.
When the Giants made an offseason trade to acquire one-time Pro Bowler Darren Waller in 2023, the move was received with praise. The organization needed proven pass catchers for quarterback Daniel Jones and the 31-year-old is considered one of the best at his position.
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However, there was always risk in the deal because Waller has developed a history of having difficulty staying on the field. Only twice in his eight-year career has played in more than 12 games. While the Giants hoped for the best they got the version of Waller that many fans have become accustomed to.
- Darren Waller stats (2023): 12 games, 52 catches, 552 yards, 1 touchdown
Darren Waller considered retirement after horrid New York Giants debut season
Last season, injuries limited Waller to just 11 starts and when he was on the field he was ineffective. It was a disastrous debut season. Yet, the organization has the opportunity to free up $11 million in cap space if they make him a post-June 1 cut. Surprisingly, the New York Post revealed on Friday that the front office has no intention of cutting Waller before training camp.
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This offseason his goal is reportedly to find ways to avoid the injury bug that has followed him for much of his career. In the post report, it was revealed that his frustration with more injuries in 2023 made the former Las Vegas Raiders star actually consider retirement after this past season.
While the money would be better sooner, there are still many impact players still left in free agency in June and a trade could be easier to make then using that freed-up cash.