Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller has battled injury throughout the 2025 season, but he should return to the field for Week 13’s contest against the New Orleans Saints. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Miami activated the veteran tight end from the injured reserve, and he will suit up for this must-win contest.
Darren Waller Injury Update: Dolphins TE Expected to Play Against Saints
Darren Waller’s 2025 has been an interesting one. The tight end originally retired after the 2023 season and spent 2024 watching the game from the sidelines. However, Miami traded for him in the 2025 offseason and, after an offseason injury, made his way to the field in late September. Waller became an immediate part of the offense despite his extended absence, recording 10 receptions for 117 yards and four touchdowns through his first three games. Unfortunately, Darren Waller suffered a pectoral injury that put him on the injured reserve for the better part of two months.
Waller’s return couldn’t come at a better time. After a disastrous start to the season, the Dolphins are starting to go on a roll. Winners of three of their past four games, Miami is mathematically in the playoff picture, but they’ll win out to have even the slightest chance of making the postseason. While Waller is no longer the 1,100-yard threat he was in 2019 and 2020, he is still dangerous in the red zone and will add a much-needed dimension to this offense.
Waller and the Dolphins will face off against the struggling New Orleans Saints. While rookie Tyler Shough has shown some promise during his time on the field, this team lacks the talent to consistently win football games. While there is no such thing as an easy win in the NFL, the Dolphins should emerge victorious in this contest.
