DJ Chark Signing In Atlanta Was In The Works Before Darnell Mooney's Injury

DJ Chark Signing In Atlanta Was In The Works Before Darnell Mooney's Injury originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Darnell Mooney would leave the Atlanta Falcons' practice field on Thursday after attempting a catch and hurting his shoulder.

On Friday, Atlanta signed wide receiver DJ Chark to a one-year deal, which appeared to be an expedited move to replace Mooney, suggesting that Mooney may miss significant time away from the football field.

Assistant general manager Kyle Smith addressed the media on Saturday and was asked about the signing. “That workout was already set up. You know, DJ (Chark) was already coming in,” Kyle Smith said.

With Mooney set to play an integral role in the Atlanta Falcons offense this season, of course, fans would speculate that he may be out for a while. However, they can now set their minds at ease knowing that the workout was scheduled to take place, adding more depth to the wide receiver position. One that requires an abundance of depth.

We have also learned that Mooney may miss a good majority of training camp, but should be ready to suit up at 100% for the first week of the regular season. Atlanta believes that Chark will be able to compete for a roster spot and challenge names like Ray-Ray McCloud, KhaDarel Hodge, Casey Washington, Jamal Agnew, among others.

Chark had just 31 yards last season, but had back-to-back seasons with 500-plus yards during the 2022 and 2023 seasons with the Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers, respectively. The Atlanta Falcons will continue their pursuit of making the playoffs this season, marking the first time since 2017.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared.