Sobriety isn’t just a one-time deal; it’s a lifelong ride. It takes continual work and dedication—not just putting down the bottle or ditching drugs.
The real battle lies in making conscious choices to steer clear of substances, alongside tackling the emotional and mental issues that often fuel addiction and harmful behaviors.
Darren Waller, a name many know from the NFL, abruptly called it quits last season as he focused on protecting his recovery from substance abuse. In his eight years on the field, he had to face multiple bans but recognized that staying sober was paramount.
He walked away from a hefty $50 million contract with the Giants when he realized that his old habits were creeping back into his life.
During his introductory press conference with the Miami Dolphins, after being traded a day following their deal with the Steelers for Jonnu Smith, Waller shared, “I need to remain in line with the values I preach. Lately, I’ve accidentally strayed from that path a bit.”
Reflecting on his past year away from the game, he expressed, “That time off gave me clarity on how to thrive and stay centered. I feel like I’m entering this new chapter ready to make a solid impact.”
Waller felt that living in New York wasn’t the healthiest choice for him, especially after divorcing WNBA star Kelsey Plum in 2024. He needed to find his footing again and focus on what genuinely excites him.
Interestingly, football wasn’t part of that equation during his hiatus. He dedicated the year to personal growth, working out, dabbling in music, enjoying moments with friends and family, travelling, and attending therapy sessions. This experience allowed him to reconnect with what brings him joy within the sport.
Waller stated, “It’s all interconnected—for me to play well, sobriety in every sense is crucial. I must prioritize my recovery constantly to maintain that effectiveness on the field.”
In joining the Dolphins, he didn’t take a contract packed with incentives or bonuses mainly because of what the league offered him.
He joined Miami feeling fulfilled, wanting to contribute significantly. This was the only team he had his sights on, thanks to his bond with offensive coordinator Frank Smith, the vibrant fan base, and his desire to inspire others.
Plus, he’s intrigued by head coach Mike McDaniel, who is celebrated for innovative strategies and shares a history of battling alcoholism.
While preparing for the Hyrox Challenge, a CrossFit-like competition, kept him in decent shape, Waller is realistic about the time it’ll take to get fully fit for football. That’s why he’s set to follow a distinct practice plan with the Dolphins.
His former teammate from the Raiders, fullback Alec Ingold, refers to Waller as ‘one of one’—a nod to his unique presence both on and off the field—believing that the wait for his return will be well worth it.
Ingold remarked, “Not many athletes can impact games like he can—I’ve been in meetings where we’re simply saying to get him the ball 15-20 times a game because he has the ability to dominate.”
However, as Waller returns to the grind, questions loom regarding his long-term motivation and whether life in Miami—along with playing for the Dolphins—will support or challenge his sobriety.
Just like with recovery, Waller understands it’s a day-by-day situation.
“I’m prepared for whatever comes next,” Waller shared. “These opportunities don’t grow on trees, and I fully intend to seize them, let alone find reasons to smile along the way!”
