Through his first three seasons in the NFL, Darnell Mooney was focused on earning respect in the NFL. That isn't a surprise. He came from Tulane in the 5th round in 2020. Nobody expected him to be an immediate contributor at wide receiver, let alone the Chicago Bears' best pass target. Perception changed after 2021 when he cracked 1,000 yards. It felt like he was finally getting some recognition for his work and his talent. It seems things have changed over the past few months.
Mooney appeared on The 33rd Team podcast with fellow receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Equanimeous St. Brown. He was asked what his expectations are for the 2023 season. The Bears receiver didn't mince words. It's not about earning respect anymore. It's about revenge.
One can understand Mooney feeling this way. Last season was a frustrating one for him. His production was down (493 yards, 2 TDs), and he missed five games with a leg injury. People seem to have forgotten about him since then. It's clear now the only way to get proper respect in this league is to make everybody else pay.
Darnell Mooney has plenty of reasons for motivation.
The lack of interest from the media and the apathy of fans is plenty in itself. Yet there is also the fact Mooney is now in a contract year. He stated that the Bears wouldn't engage him in extension talks until they saw how he looked on his surgically-repaired leg. GM Ryan Poles has said he'd like to get a deal done with the young receiver, knowing how much Justin Fields likes and trusts him. Then again, he's said that about multiple former players that Chicago ended up letting walk.
There is no doubt Darnell Mooney is playing for his livelihood now. The Bears have steadily stacked the depth chart with young options. D.J. Moore arrived via trade from Carolina. Chase Claypool is also playing for a new deal after coming from Pittsburgh. Velus Jones was drafted last year, and now Tyler Scott joins the mix as a 4th round pick. Mooney can't afford to get comfortable. He knows it. So he's decided to channel that uncertainty into pure disgust for his upcoming competition. No more Mr. Nice Guy.
