Raiders present Darren Waller with incredible sobriety gift
Despite being a star on the field, Waller has had his fair share of battles off the gridiron. One day removed from his four-year sobriety anniversary, Waller’s teammates came together, ensuring today would be a moment equally special.
In an incredibly heartfelt moment, the Las Vegas Raiders showed their support for one of their brothers, star tight end Darren Waller.
Despite being a star on the field, Waller has had his fair share of battles off the gridiron. One day removed from his four-year sobriety anniversary, Waller’s teammates came together, ensuring today would be a moment equally special.
Raiders coaches, teammates, and staff pulled together, collecting donations for The Darren Waller Foundation, surprising their pass catcher with a $30,000 check.
According to the official website, Waller’s foundation was founded to “equip youth to avoid and overcome addiction to drugs and alcohol and support youth and their families during their recovery and treatment journey.”
Waller detailed his surprise and reminisced on his journey on Instagram, sharing some touching photos with his squad.
“Celebrated 4 years sober yesterday. I remember when 4 days seemed impossible 😂 I thank God every day for transforming my mind and my life,” Waller said in his Instagram post.
“Still find it hard to wrap my mind around all the amazing opportunities and relationships I’ve been blessed with, but today I can be present and cherish them while I have them.
“The @raiders didn’t have to take a change on what seemed like an unreliable drug addict at the surface, but I’m grateful that they’ve welcomed me in, cared for me as a person, and gave me a chance to work. What more can you ask for?”
You can find out more about The Darren Waller Foundation, or how to lend your support, here.
Darren Waller wants to help Tim Tebow succeed at tight end
Tim Tebow may not have received an invite to Tight End University but one star pass catcher is willing to help him at the position.
Tim Tebow may not have received an invite to Tight End University but one star pass catcher is willing to help him at the position.
Star Raiders tight end and all-round good guy Darren Waller wants to offer Tebow some one-on-one mentoring as he tries to make the Jacksonville roster at Waller’s position.
“If he thinks he can learn from me, then I’d love to help him and help make his transition smoother,” Waller told TMZ.com.
Waller, like Tebow, wasn’t a tight end growing up, though he made a far easier transition from wide receiver.
“I tried to find any information I could from watching guys play or asking people when I moved,” Waller said regarding his position change.
“I’d love to continue to pass that on and help him be a better player.”
Some believe Tebow has a shot because of his dogged spirit and experience as a high-level football player. The Raiders’ prized piece echoed this sentiment.
“Football is in his blood,” Waller said.
“I feel like he’ll find a way. He’ll find a way. He’s physical, he’s athletic. So I wish him nothing but the best going forward.”
Tebow’s last appeared in the NFL wearing New York Jets uniform, before spending time at New England and Philadelphia in offseason capacities. The devout Christian is best known for his time with the Broncos however, particularly this magical play below.