The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to sign free agency wide receiver Darnell Mooney to a hefty three-year contract worth $39 million, with $26 million guaranteed, according to agents David Mulugheta and AJ Stevens, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Mooney’s arrival expands the Falcons’ offensive arsenal, giving new quarterback Kirk Cousins another dynamic playmaker. Mooney joins tight end Kyle Pitts, receiver Drake London, and running back Bijan Robinson in Atlanta’s offense, adding versatility and speed.
Mooney, who was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, had a breakout season in 2021, catching 81 passes for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns.
However, injuries and uneven play have limited his success in the last two seasons.
Mooney struggled to establish himself as the Bears’ primary option behind DJ Moore, and his output dropped, resulting in a career-low 31 catches for 414 yards and a touchdown in 2023. Furthermore, his 2022 season was plagued by an ankle injury, which limited him to only 12 games.
Despite these setbacks, Mooney has proven his talent and potential, leading the Bears in receiving yards in 2022 (493 yards). He has made 213 receptions for 2,593 yards and 11 touchdowns in 60 games.
