Las Vegas Raiders 2022 Rewind: Darren Waller, Future In Doubt?

Last year’s offseason had hopes of an explosive offense, but those quickly deteriorated. One of the reasons was injuries, which plagued the Las Vegas Raiders throughout the 2022 season. Darren Waller was expected to be a key component in new head coach Josh McDaniels’ offense, particularly since he had signed a lucrative $51 million extension. That was not to be, as early-season sputtering by the offense and an injury a few plays into Week 5 kept “RackWall” out for two months and limited him to just nine appearances.

Darren Waller had a decent start to the season for the Raiders… 

The start of the regular season was solid, as through Weeks 1 and 2, Waller had amassed 10 receptions for 129 yards and one touchdown. The touchdown came in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals and was en route to a 20-to-0 lead. Of course, we all know the wheels fell off and the Raiders ended up losing the game 29–23.

Waller’s Week 1 performance was notable as well. Had it not been for a pass a little behind him, he may have picked up a touchdown as well. In those two games early on, flashes of what the offense could be were showing, and many could’ve believed that it was a look toward a great season.

Waller’s worst game?

The wheels started to come off in Week 3. The oil was leaking, and the engine was running on fumes. The matchup with the Tennessee Titans saw both teams come in at 0-2 after making the playoffs the year before. What transpired was a close game that leaves you dumbfounded. Waller, who for the most part is sure-handed, dropped what should’ve been three touchdown passes.