Panthers Sign Former Pro Bowl Tight End Darren Waller

The Carolina Panthers have added former Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller to their roster, signing him on Monday. In a corresponding move, the Panthers waived offensive lineman Josh Gray and linebacker Nick Hampton, who was placed on injury designation. Waller had retired following the 2023 NFL season with the New York Giants, but returned last year to the Miami Dolphins after catching 24 of 34 targets for 283 yards and six touchdowns in nine games.

At 33 years old, Waller expressed confidence in his abilities, stating that his offseason training has helped him regain explosive speed and scoring potential. Prior to his return, Waller struggled in his career, amassing 1,145 yards with the Oakland Raiders in 2019, followed by 107 catches for 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns the next year.

Injuries sidelined him for two more seasons, leading to his trade to the Giants, where he collected 552 yards and a touchdown. After retiring at 31 due to a health scare, Waller made a return to the Dolphins, scoring four touchdowns in his first three games. The Panthers hope Waller can bolster their 26th-ranked passing offense in 2024 by providing a notable red-zone target to quarterback Bryce Young.