Darren Waller Scores Twice in Dolphins Debut

Darren Waller came out of a more-than-year-long retirement and a hip issue to make his Miami Dolphins debut Monday after being traded from the New York Giants reportedly for a 2026 sixth-round pick. Waller caught 3-of-4 targets for 27 yards and two touchdowns (four and nine yards), including a leaping catch over Sauce Gardner, as Miami beat the New York Jets 27-21. His TDs came in the second and third quarters and provided timely scoring after early Jets miscues; coaches said he looked “firmly ready to contribute” and that his arrival will alter the tight-end rotation. The performance is especially significant with star receiver Tyreek Hill likely lost for the season with a knee dislocation, leaving the Dolphins in need of additional playmakers. Tua Tagovailoa completed 17 of 25 for 177 yards and two TDs, and RB De’Von Achane rushed for 99 yards and a touchdown to pace the offense. After the game Waller posted a celebratory video and said he felt good to be back and that he had regained the joy for the game.