The Miami Dolphins are preparing for their upcoming season opener against the Indianapolis Colts, and tight end Darren Waller is focused on regaining his competitive edge. After retiring in 2024, Waller made the decision to come back to the NFL following his trade from the New York Giants to the Dolphins in July 2024.
Waller, now 32, has acknowledged that he is working to readjust to the physical, mental, and emotional demands of professional football during training camp. In a recent press conference, reported by Joe Schad of the Palm Beach Post, Waller expressed his commitment to overcoming the challenges of returning to the game. “Got to knock some rust off,” he stated. “But I’m just grateful to be where I’m at today.”
To facilitate this process, Waller plans to collaborate closely with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. He emphasized the importance of developing chemistry with Tagovailoa, highlighting the need for practice and repetition. “Just getting reps, getting time under tension, knowing how he’s getting the ball off when he hits his drop,” Waller explained. “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. It’s just time, just continuing to grind at it and those things start to become second nature.”
Waller has a history of impressive performances, notably recording two seasons with over 1,000 yards receiving in 2019 and 2020 with the Oakland and Las Vegas Raiders, where he earned a Pro Bowl nomination for his outstanding play in 2020. In 2023, while with the Giants, he finished the season with 53 receptions for 552 yards and a touchdown. Although he may not be expected to replicate a 1,000+ yard season in 2025, Waller remains a significant threat alongside star receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
As the Dolphins prepare for the new season, questions have arisen regarding the toughness of their offense, especially during joint practices against the Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions. With Waller’s return to form, he is expected to bring a physical edge that could enhance Miami’s offensive capabilities. As the team gears up for their first game, the importance of Waller shaking off the rust cannot be overstated, and his experience will be critical in shaping the Dolphins’ performance this season.
With the kickoff against the Colts just around the corner, fans will be watching closely to see how Waller integrates back into the fast-paced world of the NFL and contributes to the Dolphins’ aspirations for success in the 2025 season.