Falcons' secret weapon could humiliate the Commanders if they're not ready

"Most of the Washington Commanders' focus on trying to stop the Atlanta Falcons' passing game in Week 4 will naturally focus on star tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. and big-bodied wide receiver Drake London. Still, they can't forget about another valid target. He's a veteran who knows how to stretch the field and could embarrass a Commanders secondary torn apart by injuries in recent weeks. It's 27-year-old speedster Darnell Mooney, who offers the Falcons a legitimate big-play threat the Commanders can't ignore."

"Finding remedies for Mooney's ability to take the top off of a defense won't be easy. Not when Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., defensive backs coach Tommy Donatell, and his assistant William Gay are dealing with depleted resources. They got some help when Commanders general manager Adam Peters signed former first-round pick Darnell Savage Jr. to cover injuries at safety. The newcomer may have arrived at the perfect moment to help Washington's paper-thin secondary keep Mooney at bay."

"What the Commanders can't do is fall into the same trap with Mooney, which they fell for against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3. When a defense naturally focused on containing All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers and tough and resourceful wideout Jakobi Meyers, it forgot about Tre Tucker's deep speed. Tucker gave the Commanders a painful reminder by snagging a hat-trick of touchdown catches, including this 61-yarder in the fourth quarter that briefly gave the Raiders some modest hope."

Atlanta's passing attack features tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., wide receiver Drake London, and deep threat Darnell Mooney. Mooney is a 27-year-old speedster who can stretch the field and create big plays downfield. Washington's secondary is depleted by injuries, leaving defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and his staff short on resources. General manager Adam Peters signed former first-round safety Darnell Savage Jr. to help cover those injuries. Washington must avoid overcommitting to Pitts and London and leaving Mooney single-covered. Las Vegas exposed a similar vulnerability when Tre Tucker scored three touchdowns after defenses focused elsewhere. The Commanders may need coverage adjustments beyond man schemes.

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