Falcons Get Slap On The Wrist Despite Tampering With Darnell Mooney

Darnell Mooney played four seasons for the Chicago Bears and was a good player. Unfortunately, his last two years never seemed to go right. He never clicked in former offensive coordinator Luke Getsy’s system and lacked chemistry with Justin Fields. It was felt both sides needed a fresh start. The Bears traded for Keenan Allen and drafted Rome Odunze. Mooney quickly signed with the Atlanta Falcons, joining quarterback Kirk Cousins. It felt like a good move on paper. Cousins has a history of helping his wide receivers be productive. There was only one problem.

Whispers hinted that Atlanta may have tampered with both players before the legal window was open. Cousins even hinted that was the case during his first meeting with the media. Inevitably, the NFL launched an investigation to find out if this was true. Their conclusion was somewhat lackluster. They found no proof Atlanta contacted either player before the negotiating window but did arrange travel plans for both before either was officially under contract. As a result, the team received a fine and lost its fifth-round pick in 2025.

In summary:

— The #Eagles were not penalized for tampering.

— The #Falcons lost a 2025 5th-round pick for violating the anti-tampering policy with Kirk Cousins, Darnell Mooney and Charlie Woerner. ATL was fined $250K and GM Terry Fontenot was fined $50K. pic.twitter.com/LZIzWBbrkx

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 13, 2024

Key part of the NFL’s findings on the #Falcons: The violations were found to have occurred *during* the two-day negotiating window, not before it opened, e.g. talking to players about flights after they’d (legally) agreed to terms. Hence, less discipline than in some other cases. https://t.co/e86iseHblU

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 13, 2024

This Darnell Mooney fallout is unlikely to deter teams now.

If they feel they can land top free agents with minimal punishment from the NFL for tampering, they will do it. The league is that competitive. Paying a 5th round pick and $250,000 is a pittance in the grand scheme. Don’t forget Dak Prescott will be a free agent next year. One can only imagine the lengths teams will go to in order to lure him their way. Look at what the Falcons did for a 36-year-old Cousins and a #3 receiver like Mooney. This further explains why GM Ryan Poles probably hates leaning into free agency for help every year. It’s the wild west.

One person who is happy about this is Darnell Mooney. He gets the contract he wanted and will play with a proven quarterback. He will finally have a chance to showcase what he can do without restrictions. Atlanta is now a favorite to challenge Tampa Bay for the division title. Mooney’s last foray to the playoffs was an ugly one. It also probably helps he’s closer to home in the South. Here is hoping things go well for him. No doubt the two teams could end up battling for a playoff spot.