Should the Giants Worry About Waller’s Possible Retirement?

What came seemingly out of left field this past week was the news that Giants Tight End Darren Waller is seriously considering retirement. The was a truly shocking revelation, as this past season was the former Pro Bowlers first in New York. Waller’s first season in New York surely wasn’t one to remember fondly for everyone involved. Waller only played 12 games due to nagging injuries, but was more than effective for a large part of the year. Waller posted 52 catches, 552 yards, and one touchdown in 11 games started this year. 

Waller will be 32 at the beginning of the next football season if he does decide to keep playing. His age, mixed with his long history of injuries, could prove to be enough for the Tight end to call it quits. Ultimately the Giants are a better football team when he is on the field, as he is still a premier tight end when healthy. The question remains for both the Giants and Waller himself, though, about how often he will be healthy.  

At this point in time if Waller is to call it a career I don’t think it hurts the Giants that badly. His impact may be hard to fill as he still garners a lot of respect from his presence on the field alone. Yet, practically moving off a 32 year old player for no cap casualty will surely not be a thorn in the Giants' back. If Waller does call it a career, it has been a great one. That is without question. For New York, they will have to replace him but being as far from contention as they are, they will have time.