Pro Bowl TE Darren Waller Ends Retirement, Joins Dolphins in Trade

The Miami Dolphins have made a series of significant moves at tight end, acquiring veteran Darren Waller from the New York Giants after trading Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Waller, a former Pro Bowler who retired prior to the 2024 season, has decided to come out of retirement to join the Dolphins on a one-year deal worth up to $5 million. Miami traded a conditional 2026 sixth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-round pick to New York for Waller's rights, with Waller reportedly only wanting to return to the NFL if it meant playing in Miami. Waller had a notable career with the Raiders, including back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and setting a franchise receptions record, but struggled with injuries and a difficult 2023 season with the Giants. This move fills the tight end void left by Smith and adds a high-upside pass-catcher to Miami's offense. The Dolphins had earlier completed a blockbuster trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers, sending Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith in exchange for Minkah Fitzpatrick, marking a busy trade period for the team.