After a breakout season in 2019, the Raiders rewarded Darren Waller with a big contract extension. The team signed him to a four-year deal worth just under $30 million. One year later, the deal is already proving to be a massive steal for the Raiders.
Waller proved to be even better in 2020, catching 107 passes for 1,196 yards and nine touchdowns. He improved as a route runner and the offense was designed around getting him the ball. It also helped that Waller became a better blocker as he is now one of the best overall tight ends in the NFL.
In a recent article from Pro Football Focus, they ranked the top-32 contracts in the NFL. Not surprisingly, Waller appeared on the list at No. 2. Here is what salary cap expert Brad Spielberger had to say about the deal:
“Waller’s unique circumstances — struggling with a drug and alcohol addiction in the early years of his career — lend context to this contract signed just four games into the 2019 season. Waller’s incredible turnaround both off the field and on are extremely commendable, and his contract — less than half the per-year amount of position leader TE George Kittle with three years still remaining — is easily one of the best values across the league.”
Entering the 2021 season, this will only be the third year ever Waller has been a full-time tight end. At the age of 28, he has a chance to be even better this season. Don’t be surprised if Waller posts another 1,100-yard season in 2021 on top of double-digit touchdowns.
