Panthers sign veteran tight end Darren Waller to one-year deal

Veteran tight end Darren Waller is returning to the NFL for another season, agreeing to a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, according to multiple reports. The agreement, first reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter, was announced by Waller's agency, Rosenhaus Sports, on Wednesday night. The 33-year-old former Pro Bowler is set to join his fourth team in as many years after a comeback season with the Miami Dolphins in 2025.

Waller's career has been marked by both standout performance and significant interruptions. He was a sixth-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens in 2015, but substance abuse issues led to suspensions that nearly ended his career. He found his footing with the Oakland Raiders, signing off their practice squad in 2018. His breakout came in 2020, when he earned a Pro Bowl selection with career highs of 107 receptions and 1,196 yards.

The Raiders traded Waller to the New York Giants in 2023 for a third-round pick. He recorded 552 receiving yards and one touchdown in 12 games before retiring ahead of the 2024 season. Waller later explained his frustration with his role in New York, stating he felt he was not put in positions to utilize his unique skills. "I was...