Darnell Mooney is reportedly poised to become a free agent. According to reports, the Falcons are planning to release the veteran wide receiver.
With the new league year approaching, the Falcons might explore potential trade opportunities for Mooney before finalising his release.
Falcons Weigh Options With Mooney’s Contract
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports the Falcons’ plans to release Mooney. The Falcons may try to see if a team is willing to trade for Mooney before they make anything official with his release.
Mooney’s cap number is set at $18.42 million for the upcoming season, potentially hindering trade interest. The Falcons would absorb $11 million of that as dead money unless they designate Mooney as a post-June 1 cut.
Opting for a post-June 1 designation would free up nearly $12 million in cap space. However, the Falcons wouldn’t be able to immediately utilise those savings.
Mooney’s Performance Decline
Mooney’s production decreased in his second season with the Falcons. He had 64 catches for 992 yards in his first year with the Falcons, but slipped to 32 catches for 443 yards during the 2025 season.
The coming days will reveal if a trade partner emerges or if Mooney will enter free agency.