CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - While Darren Waller won’t be seen on the practice field until next week, his presence is already felt on the Carolina Panthers offense.
News broke Wednesday night that the team agreed to terms with the veteran tight end for a one-year contract for the 2026 season.
This adds a new element to the Panthers passing attack, as Waller stands 6 feet 6 inches tall and brings a red zone threat for Bryce Young to target.
“He improved his route craft, he’s fast,” head coach Dave Canales said after Thursday’s practice. “He really creates a dynamic possibility.”
Waller, 33, ended a brief retirement to play for the Miami Dolphins in 2025. In nine games he finished with 24 catches for 283 yards and six touchdowns.
Carolina’s associate head coach/offensive specialist Darrell Bevell spent time with Waller in Miami last year as the Dolphins’ passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
Waller tallied a season-high 78 yards with a touchdown grab at Bank of America Stadium against the Panthers on Oct. 5.
“He made some big plays against us,” Canales said. “Again, just on brand with Dan (Morgan) and I looking for ways to challenge our roster... we felt like it was a good fit.”
Canales stressed that Waller is coming in to compete with Tommy Tremble, Ja’Tavion Sanders, Mitchell Evans and others in the tight end room and he would not be the presumed starter on the depth chart.
“He (Waller) knows that, he understands that’s part of this deal,” Canales said. “He’s fired up to come here and meet some of the guys.”
Waller did not participate in Thursday’s practice, as Canales said he still has to finish his physical and other onboarding tasks.
This was the last practice before the team heads to Buffalo for Saturday’s preseason game against the Bills, so the earliest Panthers fans can expect to see Waller on the field will be next week as Training Camp continues.
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