The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant move by securing free agent wide receiver Darnell Mooney in a lucrative three-year contract worth $39 million, with $26 million guaranteed, as confirmed by agents David Mulugheta and AJ Stevens to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Mooney’s addition bolsters the Falcons’ offensive arsenal, providing quarterback Kirk Cousins with another dynamic playmaker. Alongside tight end Kyle Pitts, receiver Drake London, and running back Bijan Robinson, Mooney enriches the team’s skill positions, offering diverse options for Cousins to exploit.
Drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Mooney showcased his potential with a breakout season in 2021. Accumulating 81 receptions for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns, Mooney thrived, particularly benefiting from connections with rookie quarterback Justin Fields. However, subsequent seasons in Chicago were marred by injuries and a decline in performance.
Struggling to establish himself as the Bears’ primary receiver behind DJ Moore, Mooney faced challenges in maintaining his production. In 2023, he posted career-low figures with 31 catches for 414 yards and a single touchdown, following a truncated 2022 campaign due to an ankle injury.
Despite limitations, Mooney managed to lead the Bears in receiving yards in 2022 despite playing only 12 games.
Throughout his career spanning 60 games, Mooney has accumulated impressive statistics, amassing 213 receptions for 2,593 yards and 11 touchdowns. With his arrival in Atlanta, the Falcons aim to capitalize on Mooney’s talents, integrating him into their offensive scheme for enhanced versatility and effectiveness.
