Dolphins Place Tight End Darren Waller On PUP List As Training Camp Opens

The Miami Dolphins have brought back veteran tight end Darren Waller, who came out of retirement to join the team on a one-year deal, but he has started training camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to the need to rebuild football-specific conditioning after his time away from the game. Waller's teammates, including former Raiders fullback Alec Ingold, have praised his unique impact on the field and leadership qualities, expressing optimism about his potential to contribute despite his recent struggles with passion for football and physical readiness. The Dolphins traded away All-Star tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers, making Waller their primary tight end signing, though the starting role might be shared with other players like Julian Hill and Tanner Conner during his recovery. Waller has acknowledged that his training regimen differs from others, emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation before returning to full intensity to avoid injury. Miami's offense, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, is under pressure to break a postseason winless streak, and Waller's return is viewed as a low-risk, high-reward gamble amid a crowded AFC playoff race. Additional roster moves at camp included placing guard Liam Eichenberg on the PUP list and signing offensive lineman Daniel Brunskill, as the Dolphins prepare for their 2025 season opener in September.