Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney faces a setback as he deals with a shoulder injury sustained during the team’s first training camp practice. After a standout 2024 season in Atlanta, where Mooney established himself as the Falcons’ reliable No. 2 receiving option, this injury raises concerns for the team and fans eager to see the veteran wideout back on the field.
Details on Darnell Mooney’s Injury
During a preseason practice, Mooney went down while diving for a deep pass from quarterback Michael Penix Jr. during 11-on-11 drills.
According to ESPN reports, the wide receiver stayed down briefly before walking off the field with a trainer, helmet in hand, but did not return to practice. The injury appears to be related to his shoulder, which has sidelined him for the foreseeable future.
Morris says still “a couple more weeks” until WR Darnell Mooney (shoulder) returns. #Falcons
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) August 4, 2025
After Week 1 of the NFL preseason, Mooney officially has a questionable injury designation. However, he is expected to miss several weeks as he recovers, which could impact the Falcons’ receiving depth early in the preseason and potentially into the regular season.
Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. recently hinted that Mooney could be back for the regular-season opener, telling reporters that he “should be back Week 1.” While he added that he isn’t sure, it is still a good sign.
Mooney’s Impact on the Atlanta Falcons in 2024
Mooney signed with the Falcons in the 2024 offseason after a productive tenure with the Chicago Bears. In his first season with Atlanta, Mooney emerged as the team’s second-best receiver behind Drake London.
He ended the 2024 campaign with impressive stats: 64 receptions for 992 yards, averaging 15.5 yards per catch, and scoring a career-high five touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field and make clutch plays has made him a valuable weapon in the Falcons’ offense.
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With Mooney out, the Falcons will need other receivers to step up, especially with key preseason games coming up. Atlanta’s next preseason game is Friday at 7 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium against the Tennessee Titans.
Falcons’ Upcoming Practice Schedule and Preseason Game
The Falcons held joint practices with the Titans on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. These sessions were crucial for evaluating players and finalizing the roster before tonight’s preseason game. Some coaches even think they get more out of joint practices than preseason games.
With Mooney sidelined, it will be interesting to see how the Falcons adjust their offensive game plan and which receivers will fill the void left by the injured wideout. Head coach Raheem Morris and the coaching staff will likely monitor Mooney’s recovery closely while giving other players opportunities to shine during these final practices.
The exact timeline for Mooney’s return is still unclear, but the Falcons and fans remain hopeful for a quick recovery. Mooney’s speed, route running, and hands make him a key piece in the Falcons’ offense, and his absence will be felt.
Updates are expected in the coming weeks as the Falcons provide injury reports leading up to the regular season. The focus will be on Mooney’s rehabilitation and the Falcons’ efforts to keep their passing attack effective without him.
