After back-to-back 1,000 yard receiving seasons in 2019 and 2020, Darren Waller was a fantasy bust in 2021 due to missing six games and only scoring two touchdowns for the Raiders. Waller's production paled in comparison to the monster numbers he posted the season before; 107 catches for nearly 1,200 yards and nine scores. With the addition of target monster Davante Adams to the Raiders offense, the days of Waller receiving 100+ targets seem unlikely. But on the flip side, teams won 7;t be able to double team him due to Adams' presence so Waller's efficiency should rise.
The key for Waller's 2022 success will be his touchdowns, which dropped from nine in '20 to two in '21. It seems somewhat unlikely that he'll reach the 1,000 yard mark once again with Adams and Hunter Renfrow also getting their share of Derek Carr's passes. But a six touchdown season should keep Waller plenty relevant as fantasy tight ends go.
While not in the Travis Kelce or Mark Andrews category, Waller has a claim to be the third tight end drafted in fantasy leagues alongside George Kittle and Kyle Pitts. Behind those five, there's seemingly a sizable gap at the position.
Should Darren Waller be the third'tight end taken in 2022 fantasy drafts? Find out where he ranks in our'2022 Fantasy Football Rankings.