Silver Minings: Darren Waller on the verge of Raiders history

Darren Waller is one of the best tight ends in the league. He’s also the best receiving option on the Raiders. He’s already set the Raiders’ record for catches in a season by a tight end.

But now, he has a chance to add on to his historic season and put his name right at the top of the franchise history book, something Waller still can’t believe.

Tim Brown holds the Raiders all-time single-season receptions record with 104, which he broke in 1997. Waller currently sits at 98 receptions. So on Sunday, he’ll need seven catches to put his name atop the list.

“To be even mentioned with his name is pretty crazy,” Waller said. “I remember watching him when I was really young, I was like six or seven years old when he set that record, so to just even be in the conversation is amazing.”

It is amazing, especially considering he’s a tight end.

“He’s so humble,” offensive coordinator Greg Olson said. “That jumps out at you whenever I get a chance to listen to his interviews or read an article on him. He is so humble for being such a tremendous player at this level.

“His work ethic, his preparation, how he goes about his week and his winning routine every week; he’s just a real special football player. But a special leader, special person as well. I think everyone is getting a chance, I know his story is out there and a lot more people are getting to know Darren Waller. We couldn’t be more proud of him as an organization or a coaching staff.”

Brown was asked about Waller potentially breaking his record, and said he wasn’t shocked it might happen.

“Darren’s been the one consistent bright spot on the team all year,” he said. “He has been dominant and I actually don’t think they give him enough opportunities to take over football games.

“I didn’t think it was going to be broken by a tight end, that’s for sure. But I knew that once Jon got back (in 2018), my record was going to fall. I thought that it would be Amari (Cooper), but it didn’t work out that way.”

In other Raiders’ news:

• Importance of finishing on a high note vs. Denver and Raiders end-of-season awards.
• Raiders offer condolences following the passing of Floyd Little.
• What it means to be a Raider is not what it used to be.
• The Black Hole: Go inside Las Vegas Raiders football.