Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller missed the team’s first three games this year with a hip injury before exploding back into the NFL – ending a one-year retirement – with 10 receptions on 12 targets for 117 yards and four touchdowns in three games. During his fourth game, however, a pectoral injury landed him on the sideline after 16 snaps and before he was targeted in the game. He was placed on injured reserve that week, a move that kept him off the field for the last four games.
On Monday, head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters the tight end will be designated for return from IR on Wednesday, opening his 21-day practice window. “Darren’s window will open Wednesday, and we will reintegrate him back into things,” McDaniel explained.
Miami could activate Waller as early as this weekend, making him eligible for the team’s Week 13 game against the New Orleans Saints. The team has, historically, been very conservative with bringing back injured players and could look toward Week 14 against the New York Jets as a more likely date for his return.
Waller joins tackle Austin Jackson as players who have been designated to return. Jackson was allowed to start practicing on November 12, with eight days left before a decision has to be made to activate him or leave him on injured reserve the remainder of the season.
The Dolphins’ offense, following the season-ending injury to wide receiver Tyreek Hill, has primarily focused on running back De’Von Achane and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. Adding Waller back into the mix could create mismatches Miami can exploit as they try to make an improbable run toward the playoffs. Waller, at 6-foot-6, 238 pounds gives quarterback Tua Tagovailoa a big-bodied target, especially in possession and redzone situations.
Greg Dulcich, Julian Hill, and Hayden Rucci are Miami’s active tight ends. Tanner Conner and Chris Myarick are on the practice squad.
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