With the 2024 NFL season kicking off last September 5, it’s a great time to highlight a player whose life has taken a remarkable turn after overcoming drug addiction and achieving sobriety.
Darren Waller is poised to be the starting tight end for the Las Vegas Raiders, but this success didn’t come easily.
Waller not only had to commit himself to becoming an exceptional football player, but he also had to battle his struggles with drug addiction.
“I was getting high, literally, every day. Whatever I could get my hands on.”
Born in Maryland and raised in both Colorado and Georgia, Waller went on to play college football at Georgia Tech, where he served as a wide receiver.
He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, his rookie season was cut short in October when he was placed on injured reserve.
Following this injury, Waller faced significant challenges with substance abuse and violated league policies multiple times.
In 2016, he was suspended for the first four games of the season due to these issues.
However, the struggles continued, and on June 30, 2017, Waller received a one-year suspension for yet another violation of the league’s substance-abuse policy.
“I was in Baltimore; I was just like a vegetable.”
After his suspension ended in 2018, he was waived by the Ravens but was signed by the Raiders from their practice squad. Waller appeared in four games for the Raiders in 2018, accumulating 44 receiving yards.
As the 2019 season approached, his future appeared uncertain. Nevertheless, Waller showcased his skills, speed, and quick learning ability, earning the starting tight end position for the Raiders’ opening game against the Denver Broncos.
Raiders quarterback Derek Carr praised Waller’s potential and capabilities.
“Darren has the skill set, the desire, and the drive to succeed,” Carr said. “Now he just has to make it happen. I’m really excited about him. Darren Waller is incredibly fast, to be honest, and he puts in the hard work. He’s very intelligent; I can adjust a play in two seconds after the play clock starts, and he’s right on it, executing perfectly. He’s a lot of fun to be around and a great guy.”
During his time in Baltimore, Waller battled various substances, admitting that his struggles began with opioids.
“It started with opiates, like oxycodone and similar pills. Then it progressed to Xanax and cocaine. I didn’t care about anything—no consequences, nothing at all.”
Despite these challenges, Waller managed to persevere and overcome his addiction. He has now been sober for two years.
“Now I wake up and focus on doing what I need to do in my life, representing my family positively. I believe that mindset helps me take on more responsibilities and gives me the confidence to handle them.”
For Waller, achieving sobriety and joining the Raiders has provided him with a second chance in the NFL, and he has embraced it fully.
“I feel like I’m in a position where I can build on this and maximize my abilities and the gifts God has given me. That’s exactly what I intend to do.”
Next Steps
Waller’s story is just one of many successful recoveries. If you or someone you know is dealing with substance abuse issues, Sunrise Recovery is here to help. Our drug and alcohol rehab center offers medical detoxification, residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and more.
To learn about creating a personalized treatment plan, please contact our admissions team.