The New York Giants have made a significant addition to their offense by acquiring tight end Darren Waller from the Las Vegas Raiders. This move provides quarterback Daniel Jones with a legitimate weapon that opposing defenses will have to plan for. It also opens up more opportunities for the other wide receiver targets to gain separation in their routes. The Giants’ receiving corps already boasts a healed Sterling Shepard, Darius Slayton, Isaiah Hodgins, Wan’Dale Robinson, and rookie Jalin Hyatt, with Parris Campbell also being a notable player. Waller brings a tremendous amount of talent to the team, evidenced by his previous seasons where he recorded more than 1,000 receiving yards twice.
Waller understands the high expectations that come with his addition to the Giants. He acknowledges that he has shown what he is capable of in his career and embraces the expectations. However, he doesn’t let others’ expectations dictate his mindset. Instead, he focuses on setting a standard for himself and living up to the team’s expectations. Waller’s first regular-season appearance with the Giants was scheduled to be against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night, but he was listed as questionable due to a hamstring issue. As someone who grew up in an “anti-Cowboys household,” Waller is well aware of the rivalry between the two organizations and finds it exciting to be a part of it.
Despite being with the Giants for only six months, Waller has already become fully immersed in the team’s culture. He speaks highly of head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, who have helped recreate the culture of the organization after a few years of struggling. Waller praises the Giants’ high-class treatment of people, emphasizing the fun and conducive work environment they have created. Daboll and Schoen prioritize allowing players to have fun while also working hard and holding themselves to a higher standard.
Additionally, Waller has partnered with Invisalign, becoming the latest NFL athlete to do so. He shares that the partnership came about naturally, and Invisalign has helped him take care of dental issues. Overall, Waller is grateful for the opportunity to join the Giants and be a part of their culture while striving to meet and exceed expectations on the field.