NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Interesting report today that came out in the New York Post that Giants tight end Darren Waller contemplated retirement after this season.
He has only been with the Giants for one season, one that resulted in yet another hamstring injury that caused him to only appear in 12 games. He finished the season with 52 catches for 552 yards and just one touchdown.
The 31-year-old is due to make a $10.5 million base salary and ultimately, he decided to come back, and he will be a Giant in 2024. At his peak, Waller is an absolute weapon at the tight end position, with the hands, size, and speed to wreak havoc against any NFL secondary. His body has failed him at times.
In the last three years, he has missed 19 games due to hamstring injuries. The Raiders traded Waller to the Giants last offseason for a third-round draft pick. He is a great player, when healthy. But to be great, you need to be available.
But what this story also shows you is that Waller is just as frustrated as those who watch, coach, or sign his checks.
There is no question that Darren Waller can still play the game of football, but he was seriously considering retirement because of his frustration. Frustration that his body would not allow him to play the game he loves. You could see it on his face when he discussed his latest hamstring injury this past fall.
It takes you into the athlete's mindset a bit and if you ever question whether they care. Question if they are just there just to cash the paycheck. Oh, they care. Darren Waller is a physically gifted tight end. A unicorn and as he contemplated stepping away, that was his frustration winning out.
In the end, he decided he wanted to play, and I am sure he hopes his body will not fail him again.