Darren Waller signs with Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers have officially signed 33-year-old tight end Darren Waller. To facilitate the roster move, the team waived guard Joshua Grey and linebacker Nic Hampton, with Hampton being waived as part of an injury settlement.

Waller, a former sixth-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens, brings significant experience to the Panthers' passing game. After a period of retirement in 2024, he returned to the league to play nine games for the Miami Dolphins during the 2025 season, recording 24 receptions for 283 yards and four touchdowns.

Panthers coach Dave Canales highlighted Waller’s versatility and physical presence, noting his ability to function as both a tight end and a receiver. The team aims to use Waller as a situational threat to bolster a tight end unit that lacked a high-volume pass catcher following the retirement of Greg Olsen.