DarrenWaller caught the league by storm last season, filling the shoes of former Raiders tight end JaredCook. Waller went on to be the team’s No.1 receiving option down the stretch run, cementing himself as a vital part of Jon Gruden’s offense.
During the 2019 offseason, the Raiders determined it was in their best interest to let pro-bowl tight end Jared Cook hit the free-agent market, providing Darren Waller his first opportunity in a starting role. A move that was viewed as “unprecedented” by many, eventually ended up paying huge dividends as Waller caught a staggering 90 passes for 1,145 yards and three touchdowns.
Jon Gruden had large expectations for Waller in his offense and his new tight end didn’t disappoint. After five weeks of play, the Raiders rewarded Waller during their bye week, giving him a four-year, $29.8 million contract extension.
Gruden’s trust in Waller proved to be correct as the former Georgia Tech wide receiver led the Raiders in receptions and receiving yards. Waller’s leap in production was easily the biggest jump by any player on the team, dating back to the previous season.
Expectations in 2020 are set sky-high for the pro-bowl caliber tight end, but a new question presents itself: Can Waller stack another high-level season after breaking out in 2019?