Should I start Darren Waller? Fantasy Football projection and outlook for Dolphins TE for Week 13

Darren Waller was a fantasy football example for other tight ends to follow, but only for a short while. Waller suffered a pectoral injury on Oct. 19 after three appearances in which he scored at least once in all three games. According to a Saturday report by NFL insider Tom Pelissero on X, Waller is fully healed and ready to return to the field.

"The Dolphins are activating TE Darren Waller from injured reserve and he’ll play Sunday against the Saints, per sources," he posted. "Waller scored four TDs in his first three games before suffering a pectoral injury Oct. 19. Now, Miami’s red-zone weapon returns."

However, should managers jump at the chance to start the tight end? Here's a breakdown of what to expect in Week 13 and beyond.

Should I start Darren Waller for Week 13 Fantasy Football?

Waller at Los Angeles Chargers v Miami Dolphins - NFL 2025 - Source: Getty

The biggest question this week is whether Darren Waller will receive a full snap count or be eased back onto the field. With Mike McDaniel's job likely on the line, Waller is likely to see more snaps than usual for an older player getting back on the field for the first time since suffering an injury.

The Miami Dolphins might have planned for this, with Waller practicing in a full capacity on Thursday and a limited capacity on Friday, per the Dolphins' official injury report. The pattern appears to be saving his health and legs for the game, but also indicates they could be rushing him back.

If he's not 100% healthy, there is a risk of re-injury, but Miami's back is against the wall to make any kind of possible positive impression on fans and the front office.

As such, you can start him, but beware that there is a risk of the 33-year-old tight end ending back on the sideline for health reasons.

Darren Waller fantasy outlook for rest of 2025 season

Darren Waller at Chargers at Dolphins - Source: Getty

Of course, while many have counted out the Miami Dolphins for most of the year, the window is open for a late surge, which is likely to push Darren Waller to slide back into his role from earlier in the year.

It should also keep Tua Tagovailoa on the field as long as Miami stays relevant.

Desperate for anyone who can keep the offense afloat after losing Tyreek Hill for the year, Tagovailoa likely remembers how easy it was to score with Waller earlier this year.

If he can stay healthy, the biggest question with Waller is whether he can keep up the pace at 33 years old over the long term. Expect a solid run for the next few weeks, followed by a potential drop-off. Keep this in mind for the fantasy football playoffs. If you get to the championship and Waller has been productive but still trending down, it would be wise to turn elsewhere.