Raiders lose Darren Waller to the COVID-19 list before Colts game

The Las Vegas Raiders have placed star tight end Darren Waller on the COVID list leading up to the showdown with the Colts. 

The chances of tight end Darren Waller returning for the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 17 just got even lower. Waller has been dealing with a back and knee injury, which has forced him to miss several games. The offense has surely struggled without him being on the field.

Now, more bad news has come in for Waller, as it was revealed on Wednesday that he’s been placed on the COVID list.

Darren Waller placed on the COVID list is bad news for the Raiders

Whenever he’s out on the field, Waller really is a superstar for the Raiders and he’s no doubt Derek Carr’s favorite weapon to throw to. Before going down with his injuries, Waller had posted 53 receptions for 643 yards and two touchdowns. Those stats have come with him playing in 10 games.

With Waller out of action, Las Vegas has been able to stay in the playoff hunt, as they’re 8-7 on the year leading up to the massive game with Indianapolis this weekend. The Colts are 9-6 on the year and they’re also hoping to grab an AFC Wild Card spot. Waller, vaccinated, could still be cleared by Sunday, but folks aren’t too optimistic in him suiting up.

The Colts have problems of their own, as Carson Wentz was placed on the COVID list and it’s up in the air if he’ll get cleared in time to suit up to face the Raiders. If Wentz can’t go, Sam Ehlinger could get the start in his place.

Meanwhile for the Raiders, they’ll hope Carr can get out of his funk in terms of consistency and lead Las Vegas to a much-needed win. Should he get that done, it’s looking like he’ll once again have to try and make that happen without Waller.