Darren Waller Injury Update: Will the Dolphins Tight End Return in Week 13 vs. Saints?

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller remains sidelined with a pectoral injury that has kept him out since Week 7. Fans are eager for updates on when the veteran pass-catcher might return to the field, as his recovery continues to be monitored closely.

The 33-year-old was placed on injured reserve on October 22 following a soft tissue pectoral strain suffered against the Cleveland Browns. His absence has been felt on an already struggling Miami offense, which has seen several key playmakers miss time this season.

Darren Waller’s Recovery Timeline and Expected Return Date

The Dolphins confirmed that Waller’s injury was not season-ending, offering some optimism for a late-season return. Head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters that Waller’s situation “is not ideal, but he’s being diligent with recovery,” noting that the team hopes to have him back in “the upcoming weeks.”

Recovery for a moderate pectoral strain typically takes 4–8 weeks. Since being placed on IR in late October, Waller will miss at least four games due to league rules. The Dolphins’ Week 12 bye gives him a natural window for a comeback, meaning the earliest realistic return date would be November 30 against the New Orleans Saints in Week 13.

However, given Waller’s history of injuries and Miami’s limited postseason outlook, the team could choose to extend his recovery to ensure full strength before returning. If he’s not activated in Week 13, a Week 14 or Week 15 return appears most likely.

Miami’s upcoming schedule includes:

• Week 13 (Nov. 30): Saints at Dolphins
• Week 14 (Dec. 7): Dolphins at Jets
• Week 15 (Dec. 15): Dolphins at Steelers
• Week 16 (Dec. 21): Bengals at Dolphins

Waller’s Impact and Fantasy Football Outlook

Before the injury, Waller was becoming one of Miami’s most reliable offensive weapons. He opened the season strong with three consecutive games featuring touchdown receptions, quickly earning fantasy football relevance despite going undrafted in most Yahoo! leagues. He is currently rostered in 23% of fantasy leagues.

His return would provide a major boost for Miami’s passing attack, especially after Tyreek Hill’s season-ending injury. When healthy, Waller’s combination of size and route-running makes him a top red-zone target and potential fantasy difference-maker heading into the fantasy playoffs.

Still, managers should temper expectations. The Dolphins’ offense has struggled to find consistency, and with backup quarterbacks potentially under center, Waller’s target volume may vary even after he returns.

Dolphins’ Situation Without Waller

Miami’s playoff hopes are fading fast. The team’s Super Bowl odds have dropped significantly, and projections now peg them at just 4.5 wins on the season, down from their preseason total of 7.5. While official statements from McDaniel and the Dolphins’ staff emphasize player health first, the team’s focus may shift to evaluating younger talent down the stretch rather than rushing veterans back prematurely.

Darren Waller’s return remains on the horizon, but patience will be key. The veteran tight end’s best chance to rejoin the Dolphins lineup likely comes after the Week 12 bye, setting up a possible return in Week 13 or Week 14 if recovery continues smoothly.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will Darren Waller return to the Dolphins lineup?

Waller could return as early as Week 13 against the Saints on November 30, depending on recovery progress from his pectoral strain.

Q2: What type of injury does Darren Waller have?

He suffered a moderate soft tissue pectoral strain during the Dolphins’ Week 7 matchup against the Browns.

Q3: Is Darren Waller’s injury season-ending?

No. Head coach Mike McDaniel has confirmed the injury is not season-ending, though the team is being cautious.

Q4: How does Waller’s absence affect the Dolphins’ offense?

His absence limits Miami’s red-zone options and veteran leadership, especially following Tyreek Hill’s injury.

Q5: What is Waller’s fantasy football value moving forward?

If he returns healthy by Week 13 or 14, Waller could serve as a valuable streaming option during fantasy playoffs.