Darren Waller has made a decision about his NFL future, revealing on Sunday that he has chosen to retire from the game.
The New York Giants tight end announced on social media that he is retiring from the league after nine seasons that included one Pro Bowl appearance.
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New York Giants tight end Darren Waller walks down the tunnel at Lincoln Financial Field on Dec. 25, 2023 in Philadelphia. (Eric Hartline/USA Today Sports)
“The passion is slowly waning,” Waller, 31, said in a video on his YouTube channel.
“I have decided to retire from the game of football,” he wrote on Instagram. “Thank you God for what an amazing journey it has been. I have come so far than I ever imagined! I am so grateful for all the people I have been able to connect with and make memories with along the way. We still have so much time left to live. Love you all. Peace.”
NFL Network first reported that Waller had informed the Giants of his intentions to retire.
“We have a lot of respect for Darren as a person and as a player and wish him all the best,” the team said.
New York Giants tight end Darren Waller catches the ball during a game against the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium on Oct. 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Vincent Carchietta/USA Today Sports)
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The past 18 months have been a tumultuous one for Waller.
He moved from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Giants in March 2023, shortly after marrying WNBA star Kelsey Plum.
He appeared in 12 games for the Giants in 2023 but fell short of expectations with 52 catches for 552 yards and one touchdown.
After the season ended, rumors began circulating that he was planning to retire from the NFL, followed by news that he and Plum were divorcing after just a year of marriage, after which he released music and appeared to promote a new path for himself.
Waller said in the video that she is doing well and is excited about the next step in her life.
Darren Waller (Brad Penner/USA Today Sports/File)
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Waller’s retirement will save the Giants $11.6 million in cap money and a loss of $2.5 million in dead money. The team appears to have drafted Penn State tight end Theo Johnson in April in preparation for this day.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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