JUST IN: Will Rashod Bateman’s fifth-year option be selected by the Ravens?

Will the Ravens Extend Rashod Bateman’s Contract Beyond 2024?
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman may enter free agency after the 2024 NFL season.

The Baltimore Ravens are facing a significant decision regarding one of their former top draft picks.

Rashod Bateman is embarking on his fourth season with the Ravens, but his future with the team hinges on whether they exercise his fifth-year option.

While Bateman hasn’t consistently performed at the level of other first-round picks, he has shown flashes of talent during his three-year tenure with the Baltimore Ravens. Despite being sidelined by injuries for 34 games with 21 starts, he has managed to amass 1,167 yards and four touchdowns on 93 receptions. His potential alone could warrant picking up his fifth-year option, but he must demonstrate more to secure a longer extension.

Bateman could remain a valuable asset in Lamar Jackson’s offensive arsenal, but he faces competition. The emergence of Zay Flowers, a 2023 first-round pick, as the Ravens’ primary wide receiver has added complexity to Bateman’s future. Flowers quickly established himself as WR1, recording 77 catches for 858 yards and five touchdowns.

The Ravens might also consider selecting another receiver in the upcoming draft, which could indicate their intentions regarding Bateman. A Day 3 pick or no selection at all would likely signal Bateman’s retention. Conversely, drafting another receiver early could signal a shift away from Bateman in Baltimore.