When the Miami Dolphins acquired Darren Waller in July, he was out of football shape, prompting the front office to place him on the physically unable to perform list to start training camp. The Pro Bowl tight end would miss the majority of camp, but did work off to the side with trainers to regain his fitness. It wasn’t until August 20 that the Dolphins activated Waller, and on August 27, he officially took part in team drills.
Also Read: Miami Dolphins: Activate Key Pro Bowl Acquisition
Unfortunately, he recently suffered a setback, putting his availability for Week 1 in jeopardy.
Miami Dolphins tight end is dealing with a hip injury
Darren Waller
Dec 31, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants tight end Darren Waller (12) after a game against the Los Angeles Rams at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
According to Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network,Darren Waller suffered a hip strain before practice this week, resulting in him missing Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday’s practices. During Friday’s press conference, Mike McDaniel confirmed the surprise setback and doesn’t expect the Pro Bowl tight end to play in the regular-season opener against the Indianapolis Colts. Waller’s debut from retirement will likely have to wait for the foreseeable future.
Dolphins TE Darren Waller had a surprise setback before practice this week suffering a hip strain, and he’s unlikely to play Sunday vs. Colts, HC Mike McDaniel tells reporters.
Waller’s Miami debut out of retirement will have to wait.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) September 5, 2025
Who takes over at TE?
Julian hill
Nov 17, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Julian Hill (89) runs with the football against Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Jack Jones (18) during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Julian Hill is expected to start in Week 1, with Darren Waller sidelined. The former 2023 undrafted free agent with 15 career starts to his name received first-team reps throughout training camp as he enters his third season in Miami. While Tanner Conner could also see an increased offensive role, the Dolphins may use one of their two gameday elevations on either Greg Dulcich or Hayden Rucci.
Miami Dolphins fans react to unretired star’s injury
New England Patriots Miami Dolphins
Nov 24, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins fans watch the game between the Miami Dolphins and the New England Patriots during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images
Surprise?!?!?!?!
— Malcolm (@malcolmert) September 5, 2025
This by no means is a surprise
— Nick (@miaminickk) September 5, 2025
shocking
— Peter Panagos (@PeteTheGreek13) September 5, 2025
don’t think it’s a surprise when you sign a 32 year old who hasn’t played in awhile
— Dak (@Cinemaniiac) September 5, 2025
Surprised only by him! We (the average fan) called this months ago. Either he’s physically not ready or he hasn’t figured the offense out yet. Either way…HOW does a man who is his age and in his condition get hurt? What was he doing? I don’t by it. I’m 53 and don’t have…
— Shawon D (@Shipwreck2787) September 5, 2025
I’d probably just retire again ngl
— All Goats FF 🏈 (@AllGoatsFF) September 5, 2025
Typical injured Waller.
— Nick Mensio (@NickMensio) September 5, 2025
“Surprise” pic.twitter.com/jsrCx5Mu4b
— Ghost of Adam Gase (@GhostOfAdamGase) September 5, 2025
This isn’t a surprise at all
— Darryl Wallace (@DarrylWall1996) September 5, 2025
No one is surprised
— Jay-Millz (@Trill_Cosbee) September 5, 2025
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