Darren Waller Biography (2025) – Age, Ex-Wife Kelsey Plum, NFL Career, Personal Life & Net Worth

Darren Waller is a prominent American football tight end known for his exceptional athleticism and inspiring personal comeback story. Born on September 13, 1992, in Landover, Maryland, Waller has become a standout figure in the National Football League (NFL). He currently plays for the New York Giants, having previously made a name for himself with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Waller’s football journey began in college at Georgia Tech, where he played as a wide receiver. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, his early NFL career was hindered by struggles with substance abuse. However, Darren Waller made a remarkable turnaround after a year-long suspension, eventually emerging as one of the league’s top tight ends.

Off the field, Waller is also a mental health advocate and founder of the Darren Waller Foundation, which focuses on youth addiction recovery and prevention. His story of redemption and perseverance has inspired fans across the nation.

Full NameDarren Charles Waller
Date of BirthSeptember 13, 1992
Age (as of 2025)32 years old
Place of BirthLandover, Maryland, USA
NationalityAmerican
Height6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
Weight255 lbs (116 kg)
ProfessionNFL Player (Tight End)
Current TeamNew York Giants
CollegeGeorgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
NFL Draft2015 / Round: 6 / Pick: 204 (by Ravens)
Marital StatusDivorced
Ex-WifeKelsey Plum (m. 2023–div. 2024)
ParentsDorian and Charlena Waller
Notable FoundationDarren Waller Foundation
ReligionChristian
Net Worth (2025)$5–6 million (approx.)

❤️ Personal Life and Wife

Darren Waller married Kelsey Plum, a professional WNBA player for the Las Vegas Aces, in March 2023. However, the marriage was short-lived, and the couple finalized their divorce in early 2024. Despite the split, both Waller and Plum have continued to focus on their athletic careers.

Waller has been very open about his struggles with addiction and substance abuse, which began in his teenage years. He overdosed in 2017, leading to a major turning point in his life. Since then, he has remained sober and has become an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, often speaking publicly about his journey.

🏆 Darren Waller Career Overview

  • College Football at Georgia Tech (2011–2014): Played as a wide receiver and impressed scouts with his size and athleticism.
  • NFL Career:
    • Baltimore Ravens (2015–2018): Drafted in the sixth round but struggled with off-field issues. Suspended multiple times for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
    • Las Vegas Raiders (2018–2022): After being signed off the Ravens’ practice squad, Waller broke out with the Raiders. He had a Pro Bowl season in 2020 with 107 receptions and over 1,100 receiving yards.
    • New York Giants (2023–Present): Traded to the Giants in 2023, where he continues to be a key offensive weapon.
  • Achievements:
    • Pro Bowl selection (2020)
    • Ranked in NFL Top 100 Players (2021)
    • Inspirational Comeback Story widely recognized

💼 Darren Waller Net Worth Table

2021$2 millionNFL Salary, Endorsements
2022$3.5 millionNFL (Raiders contract)
2023$5 millionNFL (Giants), Public Speaking
2024$5.5 millionBrand Deals, Foundation Work
2025$6 million (est.)NFL Salary, Personal Investments

🎯 Conclusion

Darren Waller’s life is a compelling story of talent, redemption, and resilience. From overcoming addiction to becoming one of the NFL’s elite tight ends, Waller’s journey is a testament to the power of second chances. His work off the field, particularly through his foundation, continues to impact lives, making him not just a football star, but a role model for many.