NFL insider Adam Schefter has reported that the Las Vegas Raiders will likely be without one of their premier players today in Florida. In a pivotal Week 9 matchup, tight end Darren Waller is most likely going to be ruled out, per Schefter. We also have Raiders beat writer Vic Tafur of The Athletic confirming that Waller isn’t “expected” to play as of this publication.
Waller has gone from being one of the most beloved players on the roster to one who is rather polarizing. It’s a very odd circumstance; Waller has obviously been injured, leading to his being unavailable. He’s been working himself to get back onto the field since the Kansas City Chiefs matchup prior to the bye week.
What’s going on with Las Vegas Raiders TE Darren Waller?
However, many Raiders fans have accused Waller of not being focused on the game anymore. Some point to his off-the-field life as a problem, a rather dubious prospect, but as we all know, fans can be overly passionate. When he has played, Waller hasn’t been the same player since receiving his new contract. In his defense, No. 83 has pointed out that he and many others are still learning Josh McDaniels’ offense, a philosophy and game plan that’s recognized as one of the most complex in the NFL.
As you might imagine, this hasn’t calmed the nerves of Raider Nation. Some have grown weary of it all. The problem is the team’s struggles; that’s the real issue underneath it all. Fans have simply grown weary of it all. The problem is the team’s struggles; that’s the real issue underneath it all. The 2022 Raiders are off to a highly disappointing start, culminating with a historically bad shutout loss at the hands of the New Orleans Saints last Sunday. It could also be the notion that every week since his injury, his return has been teased. He’s seen practicing and warming up for a game. Yes, this is typical protocol. However, at the same time, some fans wonder: if he’s injured, why not put him on the shelf and have him return once he’s 100 percent healthy?
As an interesting side note, Waller was still being targeted prior to the trade deadline despite his work injury troubles. Another NFL insider, Ian Rapoport, reported this morning that the Green Bay Packers were trying to acquire his services. So clearly, Waller is still seen as one of the better talents in the NFL. Can you blame the Raiders coaching staff for being careful in dealing with this nagging hamstring injury?
What does Raider Nation think of all this?
Regardless, Raider Nation has been weighing in. Never a fanbase to shy away from showing their feelings, let’s take a look.
This might not be the case. But the optics regarding Waller is this: got paid and has since completely disappeared. Really disappointing!
— Tony from Queens (@TonyfromQueens) November 6, 2022
You know what.. he just need to go away and just come back when ready. I’m tired of him 🤷ðŸ½â€â™‚ï¸
— ArmchairCoach (@dubsrewind) November 6, 2022
Big Surprise..
— Stephen Garcia (@Stephen30057220) November 6, 2022
He hasnt played since last Thanksgiving
— Just Win 2022 (@DPalaciosJr) November 6, 2022
He plays about as often as Anthony Davis.
— Winston Wolfe (@Treadstone_OPS) November 6, 2022
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*Top Photo: Chris Unger/Getty Images