Rashod Bateman addresses his extension with the Ravens

That agreement — which came about in part due to the fact Bateman was on track for restricted free agency in 2025 — has a maximum value of $16.75M. The former first-rounder therefore remains firmly in the team’s plans, and he could be positioned to take on a larger role in 2024. Bateman himself was surprised when the team made the offer, though.

“That extension definitely came out of nowhere,” the 24-year-old said, via The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec. “I’m blessed, for sure. I did not see them doing that, but it shows that … the team believes in me. I love playing here. I love this organization … I feel like I still have a lot to do, so it was a no-brainer for me, for sure.”

Bateman entered the league with considerable expectations given his college production and the presumed role he would play early on in Baltimore’s run-heavy offense. 

He faced injury problems during his first two seasons, though, being limited to 18 games in that span. He suited up for 16 contests, logging a career-high 610 offensive snaps. Bateman finished with a 32-367-1 statline, however, and more will be expected moving forward.

Falling in line with recent trends, the Ravens used a Day 1 selection on Zay Flowers last year. He had a strong rookie season (914 scrimmage yards, six total touchdowns) and projects to once again play a central role in Baltimore’s passing game this season. The team saw Odell Beckham Jr. depart in free agency, although veteran Nelson Agholor was retained this offseason.

That sets the Ravens up for a Flowers-Bateman-Agholor trio at the WR spot in 2024. Of course, All-Pro tight end Mark Andrews will serve as a focal point in the team’s offense for the foreseeable future. 

Bateman has the opportunity to cement his status as a key cog in the passing attack as well, though, and doing so would give Baltimore another young producer. His level of play in 2024 will be a key storyline to follow.