The Atlanta Falcons made the somewhat surprising decision to part ways with wide receiver Darnell Mooney after two seasons with the team. The decision, first reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, immediately places the veteran pass catcher on the free-agent market.
Mooney was scheduled to carry a cap hit of $18.4 million for the 2026 season, making the move financially logical for Atlanta despite the timing. The 28-year-old receiver struggled through an injury-plagued campaign last season, finishing
with just 443 receiving yards and one touchdown.
While the production dipped, circumstances around the offense may have played a role. Mooney dealt with inconsistent quarterback play and never fully regained the rhythm that once made him one of the league’s more dangerous deep threats.
Just two seasons ago, Mooney delivered a standout performance, recording 992 receiving yards and five touchdowns while averaging more than 13 yards per catch. That ability to stretch the field has remained a consistent part of his game, as he has averaged better than 13 yards per reception across the past three seasons.
With free agency underway, the Pittsburgh Steelers could emerge as a logical landing spot. Pittsburgh is not currently searching for a true No. 1 receiver because of DK Metcalf’s contract, but the team still needs reliable complementary targets to round out the passing attack.
Mooney’s speed and vertical ability could make him an appealing fit alongside Metcalf, giving the Steelers another field-stretching option and helping diversify their offense. Because he is unlikely to command top-of-the-market money — unlike receivers such as Alec Pierce — he may represent a relatively affordable addition for a team looking to strengthen its depth at the position.
Whether Pittsburgh ultimately pursues Mooney remains to be seen. But with the veteran receiver now unexpectedly available, the Steelers could at least consider adding him to their list of potential offseason targets as they continue shaping their roster for the 2026 season.
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