Chicago Bears: Five young players who could shine in 2021

Darnell Mooney – Wide Receiver

Wide receiver is another position that has a lot of questions surrounding its future. It is looking like Allen Robinson will be gone next year, and guys like Anthony Miller and Javon Wims could be on different teams as well. That means there could be a good chance rookie stud Darnell Mooney takes a huge sophomore season leap. He has been a bright spot in this offense this year, and could be a top weapon in the offense going forward.

So far this year, Mooney has put up 428 yards and two touchdowns on 40 catches. Sure the numbers are not eye-popping, but the skillset that Mooney has shown should suggest he could be a real weapon. He is much more than just a speed guy, as he has shown great route running ability as well as being able to make contested catches. If only the Bears could find a way to get him the ball downfield, he could be in the conversation with names like Justin Jefferson and Chase Claypool.

Mooney has the talent to play anywhere on the field, and could even be used in the backfield on occasion. Like Kmet, the hopefully improved offensive scheme should include many plays to target Mooney because of his playmaking ability to go along with his speed. Ryan Pace may have found a true gem in the fifth round of last year’s draft, and someone who could be a mainstay in this offense for years to come.

No matter if Robinson is back next year or not, Darnell Mooney needs to be a huge focal point of the offense. He has shown he is willing to put in the work, and he has outperformed most expectations this year. He has basically taken Anthony Miller’s spot, and could potentially be the WR1 next year if Robinson and Miller left. Do not be surprised if he has a breakout year in 2021.