Darren Waller, the tight end for the New York Giants, declared his retirement from professional football on Sunday, expressing that while he once found immense joy in the sport, his passion for it has waned over time.
In a lengthy video shared on his YouTube channel, the 31-year-old Waller affirmed his decision to step away from the game, a conclusion he reached after contemplating his future for several months.
Waller recounted a frightening medical incident from last November, which occurred while he was dealing with an injury sustained in a recent game. He described feeling unwell while returning home to New Jersey after filming a music video, experiencing severe shaking and difficulty breathing. Waller dialed 911 and was hospitalized for 3 1/2 days.
Reflecting on the ordeal, he shared his realization of the fragility of life and his wavering passion for football despite the joy and memorable experiences it had brought him. This experience prompted him to reassess his priorities, leading to the decision to retire from the NFL.
Waller, who grappled with hamstring problems over the past three seasons, had a restricted participation in 12 games during his sole season with the Giants. He recorded 52 catches for 552 yards and a touchdown. Scheduled to earn $10.5 million in 2024, his retirement allows the Giants to save $11.6 million in salary cap space while incurring a $2.5 million loss in dead money.
Originally selected by the Ravens in the sixth round of the 2015 draft, Waller triumphed over early substance abuse issues to establish himself as a prominent tight end in the NFL. He faced suspensions during the 2016 and 2017 seasons for violating the league’s substance-abuse policy.
Waller has been candid about his battles with addiction, as well as grappling with depression and anxiety.
Expressing his gratitude for football, he acknowledged the sport’s role in his journey towards recovery, emphasizing the NFL’s support in providing him with the opportunity for rehabilitation. He credited football for enabling him to become introspective, a leader, and a positive influence both within his profession and in everyday life.
Waller concluded his career with impressive statistics, amassing 350 receptions, 4,124 receiving yards, and 20 touchdowns across 86 games. After stints with the Ravens and Raiders, he spent his final season with the Giants following an offseason trade.
In response to his retirement, the Giants released a statement expressing their admiration for Waller as both a person and a player, extending their best wishes for his future endeavors.
Released by the Ravens before the 2018 season, Waller joined the Raiders’ practice squad. During his tenure there, he participated in four games and secured six catches.
His breakout occurred in the 2019 and 2020 seasons, where he amassed a combined total of 197 receptions, 2,341 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns. Waller earned a Pro Bowl selection for his performance in the 2020 season and was also named as an alternate the previous year, although a thumb injury sidelined him.
Throughout the offseason, Waller and Giants coach Brian Daboll maintained communication via text messages. However, as of last Thursday, the team awaited Waller’s decision regarding his future in the game.
Anticipations were high for Waller in the previous season, but he fell short of expectations as the team struggled to a 6-11 record, missing the playoffs following their previous postseason appearance in 2016.
Waller’s personal life saw significant changes as well, as he married WNBA star guard Kelsey Plum in March 2023, only to file for divorce in April.
In preparation for the possibility of Waller not returning, the Giants drafted Penn State tight end Theo Johnson in the fourth round of the recent draft. Additionally, Daniel Bellinger and Lawrence Cager, returning from last season, provide depth at the position. Furthermore, the team bolstered their options by signing veteran Chris Manhertz during free agency.
