Chicago Bears: 3 cornerbacks Darnell Mooney should circle in 2021
By Ryan Heckman
Chicago Bears, Darnell Mooney should highlight Jalen Ramsey
Obviously, the one guy that Mooney should be highlighting on the schedule more than anyone else has to be Jalen Ramsey. After all, the social media hoopla about Ramsey is what started this conversation in the first place.
Ramsey is the best cornerback in football, no doubt. He will likely be on Allen Robinson for much of the game in Week 1, but there will still be opportunities for Mooney to square off against Ramsey. The Rams don’t necessarily have Ramsey shadow opposing receivers.
Last year against the Rams, Mooney caught just three of seven targets for 40 yards. At least one of those targets was deemed uncatchable, though, as that infamous play where Mooney ran past Ramsey saw Foles completely overthrow his wide receiver.
Week 1 could be a totally different ball game, however, with the opportunity for rookie Justin Fields to start right away. If Fields is starting, look for Mooney to have a much better day than just 40 yards on three catches.
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This could end up being Mooney’s biggest test of the season, depending on how many times Ramsey lines up opposite of him. To have his biggest test in Week 1 means Mooney should be motivated and ready to roll. If Mooney has a solid outing against Ramsey, that will boost his confidence through the roof — which could spark a big sophomore breakout for the 2020 fifth-round pick.