In a predictable and unceremonious fashion, Darren Waller, the tight end for the New York Giants, has confirmed his retirement from the NFL, marking the end of a forgettable one-season stay with the team. Waller, 31, had informed the Giants several months ago about his contemplation of leaving the game, and his absence from the offseason workout program and organized team activities signaled his decision. With the arrival of the mandatory minicamp, Waller felt it was the appropriate time to inform the Giants of his retirement.

The Giants, in a statement, expressed their respect and well wishes for Waller, acknowledging him as both a person and a player. However, his departure comes at a significant financial loss for the tight end, as he forfeits his $10.5 million salary for the 2024 season. The Giants, on the other hand, will gain $11.6 million on the salary cap but will absorb a dead-money hit of $2.5 million due to Waller's exit.

This retirement marks a missed opportunity for Giants' general manager Joe Schoen, who traded a third-round draft pick to the Raiders in exchange for Waller in March of 2023. The hope was that Waller would bring his impressive form from his time with the Raiders, where he recorded 197 receptions for 2,341 yards and 12 touchdowns, to the Giants. Unfortunately, Waller struggled with chronic hamstring issues and failed to replicate his past success, tallying only 52 catches for 552 yards and one touchdown in 12 games with the team.

Schoen's anticipation of Waller's retirement played a role in the Giants selecting tight end Theo Johnson from Penn State in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Along with Johnson, the Giants also signed veteran tight ends Jack Stoll and Chris Manhertz in free agency. The team will rely on Daniel Bellinger, Lawrence Cager, and Tyree Jackson to contribute at the position as well. Johnson, standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 257 pounds, is expected to receive significant playing time in his rookie season.

Aside from his retirement, Waller has been going through a turbulent personal life. He recently finalized his divorce from WNBA star Kelsey Plum after only a year of marriage. Waller, also an aspiring music performer and rapper, addressed the breakup in a new single called "Who Knew (Her Perspective)." Waller has been open about his past struggles with substance abuse, alcohol, and mental health.

In conclusion, Waller's retirement marks the end of an unproductive stint with the Giants, as he failed to make a significant impact for the franchise. The team will now move forward without the presence of a player who struggled to overcome injuries and find his form on the field.