Las Vegas Raiders tight end Darren Waller (83) Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Giants TE Darren Waller reveals inspiring reason for new number

By Anthony Rivardo | Last updated 6/21/23

The New York Giants' newest superstar is donning a fresh look this season. TE Darren Waller is transitioning from the number 83, which he wore during each of his previous five seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, to the number 12 with Big Blue.

On the surface, the number change may not appear to be much more than Waller sporting a stylish new look. But Waller recently opened up to reveal the deeply personal connection he has with the number 12.

"12 is a number that has a lot of meaning to me," Waller explained to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo. "As somebody that's in recovery, there are certain programs that people like me are a part of and 12 is a very symbolic number. So, it's just representing people that are in sobriety."

With #Giants TE Darren Waller for NFL+ on the reason behind his jersey No. 12 — “I'm representing people that are in sobriety programs” — the input he’s been able to have as a veteran player and the plan to help this offense pick up more yards through the air this season pic.twitter.com/MsoOIGUjFa
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 14, 2023

Waller has been candid about his struggle with addiction, speaking about his journey of drug addiction and how he has helped others overcome it on HBO’s Real Sports.

In 2017, the NFL suspended Waller for a full season following multiple failed drug tests. Since the 2017 preseason, Waller has maintained sobriety after experiencing a life-threatening overdose.

“I felt like if I’m blessed with the opportunity to play in the game again, I’ll take that opportunity seriously, just how I’m taking every day seriously,” Waller said following his suspension.

Waller made his comeback in 2018, joining the Raiders and eventually going on to establish himself as one of the best tight ends in the NFL. He surpassed 1,100 receiving yards in back-to-back seasons in 2019 and 2020.

The Giants acquired Waller this offseason via trade in exchange for a third-round draft pick. Expectations are high for Waller as he adds an explosive element to the Giants' offense that was previously absent.

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