Darren Waller retires - How fantasy football TE spot changes - ESPN

Once upon a time, mighty Darren Waller was a dominant fantasy tight end for the Las Vegas Raiders, averaging 98.5 receptions, 1,170.5 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. The Raiders, and fantasy managers, loved him. Waller's emergence was an inspiring one for many, as he became become a signature NFL player and Pro Bowler, certainly coveted by fantasy managers. The future looked bright.

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Waller was not that player over the past three seasons, supplying ordinary statistics as he battled hamstring injuries, and many fantasy managers will barely notice his recent retirement. One could blame the inadequate offenses he played in as a Raider and later with the New York Giants, but ultimately, Waller simply underperformed statistically since 2021. Overeager hopes and reputation made Waller a top-10 tight end in 2023 average live drafts, but fantasy managers were rewarded with barely four receptions per game, only 10 yards per catch and one lone touchdown.

The honorable Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez in his prime may have had difficulties thriving in the current Giants offense, so fantasy managers should not get too excited about the tight ends left behind, notably veteran blocker Daniel Bellinger and young Theo Johnson, a fourth-round pick in the recent NFL draft from Penn State. Quarterback Daniel Jones has his own issues, staying upright and throwing the football with accuracy down the field among them. Let's just say this offense is a work in progress for this season.

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