“What the f‑k am I doing?”: Darren Waller reveals real reason behind comeback after stepping away from NFL and facing health battle

Big news just came in: Darren Waller is ready to swap his mic for a helmet again. After retiring from the NFL in June 2024 and diving into a rap career, Darren Waller is now making a surprise move.

Fans are left guessing: why leave music, where did he decide this, and what changed his mind? The ex-tight end from the New York Giants took time off, released tracks like “Top Play,” and talked about health and life. But now Waller is back, aiming for one more season in pro football. The full story is here.

Darren Waller’s retirement from music and NFL return

Darren Waller, born September 13, 1992, retired from the NFL in June 2024 after eight seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, Las Vegas Raiders, and New York Giants.

He surprised many when he left football and started releasing music singles such as “Top Play” in April 2025. Darren Waller described leaving the field during a game on October 15, 2023, against the Buffalo Bills, thinking, “What the f‑k am I doing?”. In June 2024, he officially retired to focus on healing from a health scare and to explore music and podcasting.

Now, around mid‑June 2025, reports say Darren Waller plans to return to the NFL and informed the New York Giants of his decision.

He called off his rapping stint, ending the chapter after “Top Play” made a splash online. New York Giants fans are now watching closely to see when and where he will suit up again.

Darren Waller on health, music and a new NFL chapter

Darren Waller has been open about his struggles. In November 2023, he nearly lost consciousness at his New Jersey home due to severe breathing trouble, spending days in hospital—an event he calls life-changing. That scare pushed him to step away from football and dive into music.

In April 2025,Darren Waller posted on X/X (formerly Twitter): “Top Play OUT NOW!! Go spin that,” showing he was serious about the music life. The song grabbed attention, with The Times of India calling him a “retired NFL star” who “drops a banger” and proving his future might lie in music.But now Darren Waller has changed course again. He informed the New York Giants he’s retiring from rapping and returning to the NFL for one more run. At 32, he’s ready for a fresh football challenge. His story shows a man balancing health, creativity, and his love for the game—all while fans wait to see his next move.

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Retired NFL Star Darren Waller Drops A Banger ‘Top Play’ And Proves His Future Might Just Be In Music