Wide receiver Rashod Bateman hasn’t been 100 percent on the field for quite some time now. For the upcoming season, though, he is projected to be at full strength back and is poised to help Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens contend for a title.
Bateman was drafted in the first round by the Baltimore Ravens in 2021, becoming the first Minnesota Golden Gopher selected in the opening round since 2006. He signed a $12.6 million rookie contract, but his debut was delayed after undergoing groin surgery. He made his first NFL appearance in Week 14, recording his first 100-yard game and scoring his first touchdown in Week 16.
In 2022, Bateman emerged as a full-time starter following the trade of Marquise Brown. He showcased his big-play ability, including a 75-yard touchdown catch against the Dolphins. However, a foot injury limited his season, leading to him undergoing surgery that ended his campaign after just six games.
Bateman bounced back in 2023, recording at least one catch in all but two games. His best performance came in a blowout win over the Dolphins, where he caught four passes for 54 yards. He received a three-year, $15 million contract extension, keeping him in Baltimore through the 2026 season.
NFL Insider Highlights Wide Receiver Rashod Bateman as Key Weapon For Baltimore Ravens’ Lamar Jackson
Even though he some time in the past, Bateman is poised to elevate Jackson’s game and help the Ravens compete in the upcoming season. In a video shared by NFL Network on X, Brian Baldinger points out the importance of the wide receiver and his upside for the team.
“This guy is a tremendous route runner, he’s got size… I expect him to be a big focal point of this passing game with Lamar this season.”@BaldyNFL tells @MikeGarafolo to watch out for a certain @Ravens WR in 2024 👀 pic.twitter.com/y2SBqOqHyy
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) June 18, 2024
In the three seasons he has played in Baltimore, Bateman boasts a 61.2 catch percentage, a 52.6 percent receiving success rate, and has accumulated a total of 1,167 yards. He also amassed 93 receptions, 152 pass targets, and four receiving touchdowns, among others.
The Ravens are scheduled to face the Philadelphia Eagles when the new NFL season starts. Expect Bateman and Jackson to show what they’re made of when that time comes.
