The NFL preseason is rolling, and fantasy football managers are focusing on every camp development as drafts approach. Darnell Mooney suffered a shoulder injury at the very start of training camp and has yet to return to practice. With the season just weeks away, uncertainty and confusion now surround his status in Atlanta. What is his outlook for Week 1, and who could benefit if Mooney remains sidelined?
Darnell Mooney Injury Update
Darnell Mooney injured his shoulder diving for a pass during the Falcons’ first camp session in late July. Initial reports suggested a multi-week absence, but by mid-August, he still had not returned to drills. The lack of concrete updates has fueled speculation, and head coach Raheem Morris did little to clarify the situation in his latest news conference.
Morris said, “Kind of just waiting and rolling. It’s kind of a week-to-week basis. I feel optimistic about getting him back healthy and prepared. When? I’m unsure. However, we will have him back in good shape this year.” The fact that Morris would not commit to Mooney being ready for Week 1 raises real questions about the severity of the injury and the receiver’s early-season outlook.
Raheem Morris on Darnell Mooney’s shoulder: “Kind of just waiting and rolling. Kind of a week-to-week basis. I feel optimistic about getting him back healthy and ready to go. When? I don’t know.”
— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) August 12, 2025
Mooney is entrenched as the clear WR2 behind Drake London following a strong 2024 campaign. His absence for any length of time will complicate things for new starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and a receiving corps already thin behind its top two options.
Darnell Mooney Fantasy Outlook
If Mooney misses time, there is no obvious next man up on the Atlanta depth chart. Ray-Ray McCloud, who mostly profiles as a return specialist, could see more offensive snaps, while veteran additions like DJ Chark and under-the-radar names such as Nick Nash and Khadarel Hodge might compete for extra routes. However, none offer guaranteed production, making the situation murky for fantasy managers looking for an immediate Mooney replacement.
Instead, the biggest fantasy value bump could land with running back Bijan Robinson, who may see an uptick in targets, and tight end Kyle Pitts, who could finally break out if extra looks are funneled his way. Robinson’s proven receiving skills make him a sharper PPR play, while Pitts remains a high-ceiling but volatile tight end option, especially early in the year.
While London’s alpha status is secure, Mooney’s injury clouds the fantasy outlook for all other Atlanta pass catchers. For now, approach the Falcons’ secondary receivers as dart throws. Prioritize Robinson if you have an early first-round pick. Pitts could be worth a late-round flyer. Expect more updates from Morris and the team as Week 1 approaches.
If you’re drafting soon, be cautious with Mooney until a firmer timeline is established, and keep an eye on Atlanta’s camp notes to see if any sleeper emerges as a surprise target leader.
