The Atlanta Falcons head into their season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a major question mark hanging over their offense. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney has been battling a shoulder injury, and whether he’ll take the field Sunday remains anyone’s guess. For a team looking to build on last season’s momentum, losing one of their most reliable weapons could change everything about how they attack Tampa Bay’s defense.
Will Darnell Mooney Be Available Against the Buccaneers?
According to the team’s official injury report, Atlanta listed Mooney as questionable for Week 1 after he was limited in all three practices this week. Head coach Raheem Morris told reporters that the decision will not be made until just before kickoff.
Injury updates:
— #Giants WR Malik Nabers (back) is off the report, while OL Andrew Thomas (foot) is doubtful.
— #Rams QB Matthew Stafford (back) is good to go.
— #Saints Chase Young (calf) and OL Trevor Penning (toe) are out.
— #Falcons WR Darnell Mooney (shoulder) is…— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 5, 2025
“We’ve got a chance to wait up until that last minute,” Morris said, per team reporter Tori McElhaney. “Hopefully, we’ll get a chance to see one of our better players out there.”
The concern began last month during training camp when Mooney injured his shoulder during 11-on-11 drills. The injury occurred when Mooney lay out for a deep throw from rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. He briefly stayed down, then walked off the field with a trainer and did not return to practice that day.
How Important Is Mooney to the Falcons’ Offensive Plans?
Mooney’s situation has drawn significant attention because of his pivotal role in Atlanta’s offense during the 2024 campaign. After signing with the Falcons in the 2024 offseason following his stint with the Chicago Bears, he quickly became the team’s reliable No. 2 receiver behind Drake London.
During the 2024 season, he hauled in 64 passes for 992 yards, posted an average of 15.5 yards per reception, and set a new personal best with five touchdowns. His ability to stretch defenses and make timely plays made him a crucial piece of the unit, as noted by PFSN’s Logan Horito.
If Mooney is unavailable against the Buccaneers, the Falcons will be forced to lean on their depth at receiver. While Atlanta’s offense still features talented playmakers, losing a proven vertical threat would alter how they approach the game plan in Week 1.
Beyond Mooney’s uncertain status, other injuries could also impact Atlanta’s preparation. Falcons safety DeMarcco Hellams, sidelined by a hamstring injury, and offensive lineman Jack Nelson, dealing with a calf issue, will not play this week after missing all practices, per the team’s injury report.
As the Falcons aim to start the 2025 season strong, the final decision on Mooney will come down to Sunday’s pregame evaluation. With his track record of production and the uncertainty surrounding his current condition, fans and coaches alike will be watching closely to see if one of Atlanta’s top receivers suits up against Tampa Bay.
