Dolphins bring back player out of retirement to help Tua Tagovailoa after trading Jonnu Smith to Steelers

This week, the Miami Dolphins saw their roster take an unexpected hit due to a series of surprising moves. Both Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, forcing the front office to act quickly. In response, they secured a new offensive weapon for Tua Tagovailoa — a player coming out of retirement for one more shot in the NFL.

Darren Waller, who last played for the New York Giants before deciding to step away from professional football, is lacing up his cleats once again. He’s headed to South Florida to join Mike McDaniel’s Miami Dolphins.

The news was reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who shared the details via his official X account (formerly Twitter). This intriguing move by the Dolphins aims to provide added support for their quarterback.

“Surprise! The #Dolphins are finalizing a trade with the #Giants for former Pro Bowl TE Darren Waller, who is coming out of retirement to play in Miami, per sources,” the insider reported via @TomPelissero.

Darren Waller #12 of the New York Giants on the sidelines during a pre-season football game against the Carolina Panthers at MetLife Stadium on August 18, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

He also added: “A fascinating twist for Waller, who retired last summer, and a new weapon for a team that just traded Jonnu Smith.”

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The experience of a Pro Bowler

The Dolphins are currently in the midst of a rebuilding process—one that has involved several departures from the roster, some of which may not be ideal at this stage of the offseason.

Despite that, Waller’s arrival brings not only high-level talent to Tagovailoa’s offense, but also a wealth of experience — the kind that earned him Pro Bowl honors back in 2020.

Originally selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 204th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, the talented tight end also suited up for the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders from 2018 to 2022, as well as the aforementioned Giants.

The goal: To be contenders

It won’t be an easy task — especially following the exodus of key players from South Florida to other teams around the league. Even so, head coach Mike McDaniel remains confident in what his team can deliver starting in Week 1, and why not, dream of entering the AFC East title race.

Once again with Tua Tagovailoa as the unquestioned leader of this team, expectations are high for what the former Alabama star can bring to the franchise. The organization is hopeful he can stay healthy throughout the season, allowing him to fully showcase his talent.