Darren Waller: Number | Is Playing Today | College | Age

Darren Waller is one of the most talked-about tight ends in the NFL — not just for his size and athleticism, but for his unconventional journey to stardom. From a sixth-round pick to a Pro Bowl standout, Waller’s career has been a roller coaster of highs, challenges, and inspiring perseverance. In this article, we break down everything you need to know about Darren Waller’s number, current playing status, college background, age, and more — including a comprehensive FAQ section answering all the burning questions fans and fantasy football managers have.

1. Who Is Darren Waller? A Quick Introduction

Darren Charles Waller is an American football tight end currently on the roster of the Miami Dolphins in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his remarkable pass-catching ability, rare athleticism for his position, and inspirational journey from late-round draft pick to Pro Bowl performer, Waller has established himself as one of the most dynamic tight ends in the league. 

2. What Is Darren Waller’s Number?

Darren Waller wears number 83 for the Miami Dolphins. 

Waller has become widely recognized in the NFL for this number, which he’s worn across his recent teams, including with the Dolphins. Jersey numbers are an essential identifier in football, and #83 has become synonymous with Waller’s role as a pass-catching tight end. 

3. Is Darren Waller Playing Today? (Current Status)

Latest Playing Status (2025 Season)

As of the latest available information in October 2025, Darren Waller is not playing today because he is on injured reserve due to a pectoral injury suffered during a recent game. 

Here’s what you should know:

• Injury: Waller sustained a pectoral strain/tear in a game and was placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for multiple weeks. 

• Missed Time: He had already missed time earlier in the season due to a training camp hip issue, making this another frustrating setback in his 2025 campaign. 

• Outlook: Because of the IR designation, Waller is not currently available to play in today’s matchup and likely will be out for multiple weeks. 

Note: NFL rosters and injuries are updated frequently — for the most up-to-date status on whether Waller is officially active on game day, check official NFL injury reports or your team’s press releases close to kickoff.

4. Darren Waller’s Age, Birthdate, and Physical Profile

• Age: 33 years old (as of 2025).

• Birthdate: September 13, 1992.

• Height: 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m). 

• Weight: 238 pounds (107 kg). 

At 33, Waller combines experience with a still-impressive physical profile, making him a unique athlete at the tight end position.

5. College Career: Where Did Darren Waller Play?

Darren Waller played his college football at Georgia Tech, where he was a standout for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. 

Georgia Tech Highlights

• Waller played for Georgia Tech from 2011 to 2014.

• At Georgia Tech, he displayed size, strength, and receiving skills that eventually attracted NFL scouts.

• His collegiate success, particularly as a mismatch for defenders, made him intriguing enough to be drafted into the NFL despite coming from a non-powerhouse tight end program.

College is where many future NFL stars forge their identities, and for Waller, Georgia Tech was the perfect springboard toward the professional game.

6. NFL Draft and Professional Career Path

NFL Draft

• Year: 2015

• Round: 6

• Pick: 204

• Drafted By: Baltimore Ravens

Despite being a late-round selection, which often signals limited expectations, Waller quickly defied the odds.

NFL Teams

1. Baltimore Ravens (2015–2017) – Where he began his NFL journey.

2. Oakland / Las Vegas Raiders (2018–2022) – Waller became a breakout star here, including a Pro Bowl selection in 2020.

3. New York Giants (2023) – Continued as a contributor, though battled injuries. 

4. Miami Dolphins (2025–Present) – The latest team where Waller appears before injuries limited his 2025 season.

Waller’s rise from a sixth-round pick to a Pro Bowl tight end is one of the most inspiring success stories in recent NFL memory.

7. Career Achievements & Stats

Darren Waller has compiled impressive career numbers throughout his time in the NFL:

Career Receiving Stats (NFL)

• Receptions: 363+

• Receiving Yards: 4,301+

• Receiving Touchdowns: 24+

These numbers include multiple seasons with elite production — notably his breakout years with the Raiders where he became one of the league’s premier pass-catching tight ends.

Notable Career Highlights

• Pro Bowl Selection (2020).

• Multiple seasons surpassing 1,000 receiving yards during his Raiders tenure.

• Valuable veteran presence on every roster he’s joined.

8. Style of Play & Strengths

Waller’s game is defined by:

• Elite Size & Length: Uses his 6-6 frame to create mismatches against smaller defenders. 

• Route-Running Ability: Exceptional for a tight end, allowing him to function similarly to a wide receiver.

• Red Zone Threat: His size makes him a go-to target near the end zone.

• Versatility: Can line up in multiple positions and be used in creative schemes.

Though injuries have impacted parts of his career, Waller’s unique skill set has made him a key offensive weapon when healthy.

9. Recent Injury Updates & What It Means for His Playing Status

In 2025, Waller began the season after returning from brief retirement and joining the Miami Dolphins. He appeared in games early but then suffered a pectoral injury that led to placement on injured reserve, meaning he was sidelined and not eligible to play in games during that time. 

Today — barring an official roster move activating him from IR — Darren Waller will not be playing if he is still listed on injured reserve.

If you’re checking game day status, always rely on:

• Official NFL injury reports

• Team announcements

• Game day inactive lists

These are the most accurate sources for who is actually active on game day.

10. Off-Field Journey & Personal Story

Waller’s story extends well beyond the gridiron. He has been open about personal challenges earlier in his life, including battles off the field — making his comeback and professional success all the more compelling.

His path from late-round draft pick to Pro Bowl performer is an inspirational tale about resilience, discipline, and belief in oneself.

FAQs About Darren Waller

Q1. What number does Darren Waller wear?
A: He wears #83 for the Miami Dolphins. 

Q2. Is Darren Waller playing today?
A: As of the latest reports, Waller is on injured reserve and not playing today. Check the official NFL injury report for the most current status. 

Q3. What college did Darren Waller attend?
A: He played college football at Georgia Tech. 

Q4. How old is Darren Waller?
A: Darren Waller is 33 years old (born September 13, 1992). 

Q5. Has Darren Waller made the Pro Bowl?
A: Yes, he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2020. 

Q6. What teams has Darren Waller played for?
A: Waller has played for the Baltimore Ravens, Raiders (Oakland/Las Vegas), New York Giants, and Miami Dolphins. 

Q7. Why is Darren Waller not playing?
A: He suffered a pectoral injury that placed him on injured reserve in 2025, rendering him unavailable for games until activated. 

Conclusion

Darren Waller remains one of the most compelling figures in professional football. From his #83 jersey and Georgia Tech roots to his Pro Bowl peak and current injury status, Waller’s journey exemplifies resilience and impact.