When the Baltimore Ravens selected former University of Minnesota standout wide receiver Rashod Bateman in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, expectations were high. He was viewed as one of the most complete prospects at the position, capable of being a threat at every level of the defense with inside-outside versatility, elusive run-after-catch ability, crisp route-running, strong hands and field-stretching speed.
Unfortunately, availability has been his only weakness since entering the league, causing him to miss extended time or be hampered in each of his first three seasons. Despite his struggles with the injury bug that has included core muscle surgery and a Lisfranc foot injury, the Ravens opted to bet on the flashes of explosive playmaking from Bateman, signing him to a two-year extension worth $15.