Darren Waller injury update: Miami Dolphins place star TE on IR; sign Greg Dulcich to active roster

The Miami Dolphins are navigating a challenging NFL season, and the latest blow came with the news that star tight end Darren Waller has been placed on injured reserve (IR) due to a pectoral injury sustained in Week 7 against the Cleveland Browns.

According to the announcement, Waller is set to miss at least the next four games. With the team already reeling from the loss of wide receiver Tyreek Hill to a gruesome leg injury four weeks ago, Miami’s offense faces an uphill battle.

Significant role for the Miami Dolphins

Darren Waller, a remarkable tight end, has been a bright spot for the Miami Dolphins in an otherwise lackluster offensive season. After coming out of retirement, Waller made an immediate impact, recording a team-high four touchdown catches in just four games.

His debut in Week 4 against the New York Jets saw him haul in three passes for 27 yards and two touchdowns. He followed that with a standout performance against the Carolina Panthers, catching five passes for 78 yards and another score. Waller’s streak of touchdown catches continued for three consecutive games before he was shut out in the loss to Cleveland.

Darren Waller’s injury details

Darren Waller suffered a pectoral injury against the Cleveland Browns, which has sidelined him, compounding the Dolphins’ injury woes. Waller had already missed the first three games of the season due to a hip injury, making his absence a recurring challenge for the team. The Dolphins acquired Waller from the New York Giants in the offseason for a 2026 sixth-round pick and a conditional 2027 seventh-round pick, a trade that showcased their belief in his ability to elevate the offense.

Miami Dolphins’ roster adjustment

In response to Darren Waller’s placement on IR, the Miami Dolphins made a strategic move by signing tight end Greg Dulcich to the active roster from the practice squad.

Dulcich, a former third-round pick by the Denver Broncos, brings experience to the table with 41 receptions for 464 yards and two touchdowns across 21 career games. While Dulcich’s numbers don’t yet match Waller’s production, his addition is expected to provide depth and a potential spark for an offense in desperate need of playmakers.

What’s next for the Miami Dolphins?

Darren Waller’s absence will leave a void in the Miami Dolphins' passing game, particularly in the red zone, where his touchdown prowess was critical. The team will now rely on Dulcich and other offensive players to step up. Head coach Mike McDaniel and the coaching staff face the challenge of scheming around these injuries while addressing the team’s turnover issues and inefficiency on third downs.

As the Dolphins prepare for their upcoming games, the focus will be on stabilizing the offense and finding ways to maximize their available talent. Waller’s eventual return could provide a much-needed boost, but for now, the Dolphins will aim to adapt to compete in a tough AFC landscape.