Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney is enjoying his life. He signed a 3-year $39 million contract with them early this year. The mention of his NFL journey would be incomplete without talking about his support system, his parents. They nurtured his knack for football, working tirelessly so that he can become a professional athlete. The receiver’s life has been emotional too.

Who are Larry Mooney and Valerie Hutchins?

Mooney was born to Larry Mooney and Valerie Hutchins on October 29, 1997 in Gadsden, Alabama. His hometown has a love for football and has produced many football players. He also played football. While his father worked at General Motors, his mother also worked at Goodyear. He and his twin brother, Denzel, would sit in the back of the truck and play video games while Larry listened to rap.

Larry belonged to Chicago and was a good computer technician. While everything was going smoothly, the mishap struck. In July 2014, Darnell Mooney’s father passed away because of leukemia. This forced him to grow up in an instant. In his own words, “when my father passed, I felt like I had to step up for my siblings and my mom. I couldn’t be a kid anymore.” He could take care of Denzel and their elder sister with the NFL money, hence, he became serious.

After 8 long years, he entered world’s biggest football league in 2020. Inspired by his father’s love for him, the receiver wore a pendant containing his father’s ashes during the first 2 NFL seasons. When asked about it, his reply was, “I feel like he’s with me at all times. I have my prayers and then at the end of every prayer I just say, ‘what’s up, pops’.” Well, Larry has certainly left a deep impression on his son.

The receiver is trying his best to give back to the society now.

Darnell Mooney’s tribute to his father

In week 12 of the 2022 season, the receiver suffered a season ending ankle injury. One week later, he partnered with ‘My Cause My Cleats’ initiative to honor his father. The cleats will be auctioned off, and 100% of the money raised was donated to the charity chosen by the athletes. The WR chose Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to donate money to. He tries to inspire the younger generation in other ways as well.

In June this year, he brought Justin Fields to his block. Both met with children and posed for photographs as well. His mother, Valerie, thanked her son in a Facebook post and wrote, “Today was a great day. I enjoyed myself as always while supporting my Son!!!!! .”

With his father watching him from above and his mother guiding him, Darnell Mooney looks ready for big things. Stay connected while we bring such family stories to you.