Waddle recorded four receptions on six targets for 61 yards and a touchdown in the Dolphins' Week 1 victory over New England.
Waddle was out-targeted by only DeVante Parker, and he finished second on the team with 61 receiving yards. He showed explosiveness in a variety of ways and picked up 17 yards on the team's first play from scrimmage. Waddle played a key role at other points in the game, hauling in a deep reception of 36 yards that set up a field goal just before halftime. On the team's opening possession of the second half, Waddle found the end zone on a three-yard catch. While Will Fuller (suspension) will return for the team's Week 2 matchup against Buffalo, Waddle showcased his capabilities in his opening regular-season contest as a professional.