Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller revealed his timeline to decide whether to retire from football or return to the team.
Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller retired from the NFL in 2023 but surprisingly returned in 2025 to play for the team.
Unfortunately, Waller was not fully back in playing shape to start the season, and did not make his regular season debut until Week 4. Now, he has revealed that he will make a choice regarding his future soon.
Waller was a guest on the "Glory Daze" podcast with Johnny Manziel, and he spoke about a ton of subjects, like being present when former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel was fired.
One of the bigger subjects was his return to the NFL and whether or not he plans to return to the Dolphins in 2026.
"I'm definitely considering playing again, for sure. I'm planning on giving myself till the end of the month to sit with and contemplate. I know that the difficulties that I faced this year were due to not having the proper training," Waller said.
Waller did offer some self-awareness regarding his health during the 2025 season. After not playing until Week 4, he also ended the season on IR due to a groin injury.
Waller indicated to Manziel that he plans to start training after the Super Bowl to get his body right, should he want to return to play another season. He also did not indicate whether or not he would return with the Dolphins.
When Waller made his Dolphins debut in Week 4, he took full advantage of that opportunity. He picked up 27 yards and two touchdowns on three receptions.
Following his breakout red zone day, Waller would follow that up with a touchdown in the next two games. He also picked up two scores during garbage time against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 15.
Despite only playing in nine games, Waller brought in 283 yards and six touchdowns. It is clear that he is a red zone weapon, and the Dolphins would benefit greatly from having him back and fully healthy in 2026.
It also depends on whether or not new Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and whoever the new head coach is want to bring Waller back for the 2026 season.
Waller would likely need a new contract, and if its is cost-effective, the Dolphins might want to give him another look. This is all depending on whether or not he decides to ultimately return for another season.