why did darren waller retire

Darren Waller retired in June 2024 primarily due to a combination of a fading passion for football, frustration with his role on the New York Giants, and a health scare he experienced in November 2023 that made him reevaluate his life. Specifically, while playing with the Giants in a game against the Buffalo Bills, he realized he was being used in a role he did not enjoy, leading him to question his future in football. Additionally, injuries and off-field issues contributed to his decision. After retiring, Waller explored a music career but ultimately came out of retirement to rejoin the NFL with the Miami Dolphins in 2025.