Darnell Mooney is seeking a career revitalization with the New York Giants after an injury-plagued 2025 season. Healthy and at 28 years old, Mooney is among a group of veteran wide receivers vying for the final roster spots on the team.
Mooney's 2025 campaign was derailed by injuries. He broke his collarbone on the first play of training camp and later sustained a hamstring injury that sidelined him for two additional games. These setbacks limited him to 443 receiving yards and one touchdown, a significant drop from his 2024 performance where he recorded 992 receiving yards.
"I mean, I can just be here," Mooney said regarding his current health and how it impacted the previous season. "I can just be here in this moment and continue just to be in this situation."
Now with the Giants, Mooney has a chance to re-establish himself. He is part of a competitive wide receiver group that includes Calvin Austin III, Isaiah Hodgins, Braxton Berrios, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Odell Beckham Jr., and Jalin Hyatt. Mooney's potential is noted, as Pro Football Focus data from last season indicated he ranked eighth in the NFL with an average depth of target of 14.4 yards.
Adding to his potential comfort and familiarity, Mooney is reuniting with offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. Mooney spent the first two years of his NFL career under Nagy when Nagy was the head coach of the Chicago Bears. "There’s some of the things that I’ve played with, the plays, he’s done my first two years in the league," Mooney stated. "He’s got some new plays, but everything’s kind of picking up speed from familiarity."
Mooney is currently on a one-year deal with the Giants.
In other team news, center John Michael Schmitz Jr. missed practice due to a concussion, with Bryan Hudson filling in as his replacement. Quarterback Jaxson Dart sustained a foot injury during practice after a player stepped on it, but he was deemed okay. The Giants also signed defensive back JT Woods and released defensive lineman Sam Roberts. Outside linebacker Abdul Carter missed practice with a hand/finger injury but is expected to return soon. JuJu Smith-Schuster and Lucas Patrick did not practice due to knee injuries. Defensive lineman Chauncey Golston was being evaluated after hitting his head on the turf. Wide receiver Jalin Hyatt appeared to get injured on the final play of practice but is expected to be fine, according to coach John Harbaugh. Greg Newsome II, who left practice with a knee concern, is also expected to be fine.
The Giants are currently operating amidst significant facility renovations, including a new locker room and weight room. These upgrades have led to the team using temporary facilities, a situation described by Harbaugh as not ideal but manageable. The renovations are anticipated to be completed by 2028.