If you mention the name Rashod Bateman to Baltimore Ravens fans, you’ll likely be met with a mix of opinions. The former first-round pick hasn’t quite lived up the billing in Baltimore. The highly talented receiver out of Minnesota has yet to log a single thousand-yard season in the NFL, averaging just 429 receiving yards throughout his first five years. Despite this, Bateman is a player the Dallas Cowboys must be mindful of as they travel to Rio de Janeiro to take on the Ravens in Week 3 of this young 2026 season.
With Zay Flowers likely to miss action this week, Bateman becomes the top weapon downfield. Sans Flowers last week, Bateman led the Ravens in receiving, collecting seven balls for 88 yards and a touchdown. For a player coming off arguably
the most disappointing season of his career, it was welcomed event for the 26-year-old.
At 6-foot-1, 193 pounds, Bateman is the prototypical receiver. His precise route running and athletic prowess allows him to play across the formation for the Ravens. With 27 of his 107 snaps coming from the slot, he could serve as Flowers’ primary replacement inside. Lamar Jackson likes to target inside route runners, so it’s an ideal location for them to showcase their “next man up” should Flowers indeed miss another week.
Rashod Bateman 7 receptions for 88 yards
— Yuri (@Yuri_Ravens) September 22, 2026
Stemming off at the top of his routes, head fakes and selling his cuts. Finding soft spots in zones and sitting down. Got friendly to the qb. pic.twitter.com/xY3f0LDtqc
Bateman’s struggles throughout his professional career is the subject of debate in Baltimore. While injuries have certainly played their part, so has Bateman’s supportive role. The Raven’s run-first offense hasn’t always had enough balls to go around. With WR1 and their tight ends often getting priority, Bateman and the other down-roster receivers have played bit parts.
Rashod Bateman's route running shook the cornerback off the screen on his touchdown. 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/ktiMORMUKQ
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) September 21, 2026
On paper, Bateman is nothing to worry about. His track record is sparse so it’s easy to overlook someone like him. But given the role he may play Sunday and his inspiring breakout last week, he’s probably not the guy Christian Parker and his defense want to take for granted.
Baltimore is going to lean on their running game and tight ends heavily in Brazil this week, but no one should be surprised if they target Bateman when the numbers are in their favor. With the Cowboys likely to pack the box to match 12 and 13 personnel, there will be ample opportunity downfield for this would-be challenger.
You can follow Reid on X @ReidDHanson and be sure to follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Polarizing Ravens WR a wildcard Cowboys must deal with in Week 3
