When the Dolphins traded away Jonnu Smith, questions were raised about how they would replace his production at the tight end spot. In a move which few (if any) observers saw coming, Darren Waller was acquired upon unretiring. 
Waller’s career seemed to be over when he hung up his cleats last offseason, but the opportunity to reunite with Frank Smith (now the Dolphins’ offensive coordinator after working with Waller during his Raiders tenure) prompted his decision to return to the NFL. With the 2025 season winding down, it remains to be seen if he will continue playing next year.
“I will evaluate at the end of the season and see what I want to do,” the 33-year-old said (via Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald). “I’m not leaning one way or the other right now. Just focusing on enjoying these moments we’ve got.”
Injuries were prevalent in Waller’s career prior to his retirement, and he has been sidelined on multiple occasions with the Dolphins. The former Pro Bowler has made seven appearances and counting, and that stretch includes a pair of two-touchdown performances. In all, Waller has totaled 243 yards and six scores on 20 catches this season. He could remain a red zone option for 2026 in the event he remains in Miami.
Having been eliminated from the playoffs on Monday, the Dolphins have three games remaining in their season. Healthy once more, Waller will look to remain available down the stretch as Miami turns to rookie Quinn Ewers under center. A strong finish to the campaign on offense in particular could be key in determining whether head coach Mike McDaniel (and by extension Smith and the rest of the team’s staff) will be retained this offseason. That, in turn, will likely play a large role in Waller’s decision on his own future.
Greg Dulcich and Julian Hill are pending 2026 free agents. The Dolphins’ tight end room also includes undrafted rookie Jalin Conyers, whose pact runs through 2027. Plenty of changes could be taking place soon at the position as a result, although part of the team’s planning will depend on how Waller chooses to proceed.