Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris expressed a careful and reserved stance regarding wide receiver Darnell Mooney’s readiness for the start of the season. Morris described his approach to Mooney’s recovery as a “week-to-week basis,” indicating hope that Mooney will be healthy in time but without providing specific timing.
Kind of just waiting and rolling,
Morris said, via Josh Kendall of The Athletic.
Kind of a week-to-week basis. I feel good about getting him back healthy and ready to go. When? I don’t know. We’ll have him back healthy this year, though.
—Raheem Morris, Falcons Head Coach
Mooney’s impact and the Falcons’ need for his presence
Darnell Mooney was a critical playmaker for Atlanta last season, notably delivering standout performances against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he amassed 191 receiving yards and three touchdowns across two games. His contributions are expected to be vital as the Falcons prepare for a significant Week 1 game against the defending NFC South champions.
The Falcons, led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr., could greatly benefit from Mooney’s return to form early in the season.
Michael Penix Jr. offers optimism on Mooney’s recovery
In contrast to Morris’ cautious remarks, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. conveyed a more optimistic expectation for Mooney’s availability. Penix suggested that Mooney’s recovery is progressing well and expressed hope that he will be on the field for the opener, albeit with some caution about confirming specifics.
Obviously Mooney, we’ll have him back coming up in the season. I feel like he should be back Week 1. But I’m not sure, I’m not gonna talk too much about that… He’s been doing good with his recovery,
Penix said, via Joe Patrick of 92.9 The Game.
Outlook on Mooney’s return and season impact
While Mooney’s Week 1 status remains uncertain, the signals from team leadership suggest it is unlikely he will miss substantial time in the 2024 campaign. The hope is that he will be ready to contribute shortly after the season begins, providing the Falcons with an important offensive weapon alongside Michael Penix Jr. as they seek a strong start against tough NFC South competition.