Last offseason, when the New York Giants traded the 100th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft for Darren Waller, many fans lauded the front office for acquiring a star pass-catcher to address one of the team’s major needs. Giants GM Joe Schoen turned what he received for trading Kadarius Toney into a Pro Bowl tight end, which was considered a significant victory in the Big Apple.
However, Waller’s lone season in New York did not unfold as hoped. He appeared in only 12 games and recorded 52 receptions for 552 yards and one touchdown. While these were respectable numbers for a starting tight end, he rarely showcased the game-changing ability that earned him Pro Bowl honors in 2020.
As the offseason began, rumors swirled about the 31-year-old potentially contemplating retirement. For reasons unknown, he took several months to provide the Giants’ front office with a final decision on his playing status for the 2024 season, leaving them to navigate free agency and the 2024 NFL Draft without clarity.
Finally, on Sunday, Waller made his decision clear: He will not be playing football this season. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Waller informed the Giants that he plans to retire from the NFL, effective immediately. This move frees up approximately $11.6 million in cap space for New York.
The Giants likely anticipated this outcome. In April, they selected Penn State tight end Theo Johnson with the 107th pick in the draft. Johnson, a 6-foot-6, 259-pound athlete with impressive 4.57 speed, shares a similar playing style to Waller. However, as a rookie, Johnson is expected to serve as a backup, with Daniel Bellinger reclaiming the starting tight end role. The Giants also have Jack Stoll, Chris Manhertz, Lawrence Cager, and Tyree Jackson on their tight end depth chart, providing them with several athletic options.
Meanwhile, Waller may now shift his focus to his rap career. The Landover, Maryland native has already released several songs, including one detailing his recent breakup with WNBA star Kelsey Plum.
