Falcons Release $18.4 Million Wide Receiver Ahead of Free Agency

Atlanta parts ways with veteran receiver Darnell Mooney due to salary cap constraints.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Atlanta Falcons have decided to release wide receiver Darnell Mooney, who was set to count $18.4 million against the salary cap in the upcoming season. Mooney, a former Chicago Bears player, had a strong 2024 season with the Falcons but saw his production drop in 2025. The Falcons' move allows them to free up cap space and potentially address other needs in free agency.

Why it matters

The Falcons' decision to release Mooney highlights the challenges teams face in managing the NFL's salary cap. Mooney was a productive player, but his high cap hit made him expendable as the Falcons look to retool their roster. This move could open the door for the Falcons to pursue other free agents or re-sign their own players.

The details

Mooney, 28, was set to count $18.4 million against the Falcons' salary cap in the 2026 season. After a strong 2024 campaign where he caught 64 passes for 992 yards and 5 touchdowns, Mooney's production dipped in 2025 to 32 receptions for 443 yards and 1 touchdown. The Falcons decided the high price tag was no longer worth it, leading them to part ways with the veteran receiver.

  • Mooney played two seasons for the Falcons after arriving from the Chicago Bears.
  • In 2024, Mooney had 64 catches for 992 yards and 5 touchdowns.
  • In 2025, Mooney's production dropped to 32 catches for 443 yards and 1 touchdown.

The players

Darnell Mooney

A 28-year-old wide receiver who spent the last two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons after playing his first four NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears.

Atlanta Falcons

The NFL team based in Atlanta, Georgia that has decided to release wide receiver Darnell Mooney due to salary cap constraints.

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What’s next

Mooney will now enter free agency, where he is expected to draw interest from other teams looking for a veteran wide receiver option.

The takeaway

The Falcons' decision to release Darnell Mooney highlights the difficult salary cap decisions NFL teams must make, even with productive players. This move gives Atlanta more flexibility to address other roster needs in free agency as they look to improve the team.