Titans and NFL Free Agency: the Pros and Cons of Signing Wide Receiver Darnell Mooney

The first two seasons for Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney looked like the start of something big. Minor injuries and poor quarterback play curtailed his production in 2022 and 2023. Might the Tennessee Titans and his former coach revive his career?

NASHVILLE — NFL teams shopping for free-agent wide receivers next week may find that the selection is a little thin now. But Tennessee Titans general manager Ran Carthon might consider a discount option in Chicago Bears wide receiver Darnell Mooney. 

The Titans need to strengthen their wide receiver corps. DeAndre Hopkins carried the team alone In 2023. Furthermore, second-year quarterback Will Levis needs reliable pass catchers to maximize his potential.

The Titans can start negotiating with players on March 11, the first day of what the NFL calls the legal tampering period. On March 13, teams can sign free agents. 

Three top wide receivers are off the board: 

• Mike Evans extended his contract with Tampa Bay. 
• Franchise tags have been placed on Tee Higgins of Cincinnati and Michael Pittman of Indianapolis.

Calvin Ridley and Marquise Brown are options we've already discussed on AllTitans.com, so let's get to know Mooney. 

First, here are some career highlights.

• Holds the record for most receptions (142) by a Bears wide receiver in their first two seasons.
• In 2021, he racked up a team-high 1,055 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns.

And now the arguments:

No. Don't do it

Mooney had his worst statical season at the most inopportune time. He had career-lows in catches (31), yards (414), and touchdowns (one). His PFF grade was 55.2, which ranked 107 out of 128 eligible NFL receivers. 

Mooney's performance has declined since his 2021 breakout season, partially due to the instability of the franchise's quarterback position. Additionally, he has faced several injuries, including an ankle injury that affected his speed last season.

Yes. Buy low

If he's in top form, Mooney is a dynamic receiver who can easily surpass corners on the boundary. 

Assuming he's healthy, he could be an excellent deep threat. At 27 years old, there's a possibility that he still has plenty of potential left to showcase. Additionally, Mooney has a prior connection with the Titans' new receivers coach, Tyke Tolbert. 

PFF projects Mooney signing a one-year deal at $9 million. A motivated Mooney on a prove-it deal could be huge for both sides. Also, getting Mooney could mean the Titans could focus on an offensive lineman like Joe Alt with the No.7 pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.

If Tolbert believes he can help Mooney get back to his 2021 performance it could be a coup for the Titans. If not, the Titans should focus on other options at wide receiver.

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