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Darren Waller Removed from PUP; Will Practice

Originally posted on Dolphins Talk | By Mike Oliva | Last updated Aug 20, 2025 11:52 AM ET

Darren Waller Removed from PUP; Will Practice

NFL Insider Jordan Schultz is reporting that tight end Darren Waller is being taken off the PUP list by the Miami Dolphins, and he will begin to practice.

Miami signed Waller to a 1 year deal worth up to $5 million after making a small trade to acquire him two months back.

Waller last played in the NFL in 2023, and he did not play last season.

Waller is a former 6th-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens in 2015. He has played for the Ravens, Raiders, and Giants. He had his most success with the Raiders, where he had back-to-back 1,100-yard seasons.

In his final season in the NFL in 2023, for the NY Giants, Waller played in 12 games, starting 11, with 52 receptions for 552 yards and one touchdown. His retirement was a surprise after the season because he was still considered one of the better tight ends in the NFL.

The #Dolphins are activating TE Darren Waller off PUP

Officially out of retirement, Waller is poised to be a top target for Tua Tagovailoa in Miami’s offense. pic.twitter.com/x3bCvcL5cw

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 20, 2025

Waller will compete with Julian Hill, Pharaoh Brown, and Tanner Conner for playing time this season.

Waller was brought in to help replace the production that was lost when Miami traded Jonnu Smith a couple of months back. Jonnu wanted a new contract, and Miami refused, so they moved him to Pittsburgh.

Jonnu caught 88 passes last season for 884 and 8 touchdowns.

Waller is the best pass-catching tight end on Miami’s roster by far, and he will have a roster spot when Miami cuts the roster to 53 men next week.

He will likely be used in a limited role, focusing on passing downs, and not asked to be a significant in-line blocker on running plays, as that is not his strength.

If Waller can regain the form he had just a few years back he will help this Dolphins offense in 2025.

This article first appeared on Dolphins Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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