Rashod Bateman nearly became a Dallas Cowboy this offseason, but ultimately, he stayed with the team that drafted him, the Baltimore Ravens, thanks to a timely contract extension. Just last month, Bateman inked a three-year deal worth $36.75 million, with $20 million of that guaranteed. It seems everything aligned just right for Bateman and the Ravens, but the path wasn’t straightforward.
Back in May, there were rumblings of the Cowboys’ interest in Bateman. They were hunting for a new receiver and their search led them to Baltimore before they found a match with the Pittsburgh Steelers for George Pickens. NFL insider Jordan Schultz shared that the Cowboys had indeed considered a trade for Rashod Bateman during their receiver quest.
Reflecting on what might have been, Bateman acknowledged there was a moment when he could have been heading to Dallas. Yet, when push came to shove, both he and the Ravens were eager to maintain their partnership. Bateman expressed gratitude toward Ravens’ General Manager Eric DeCosta, crediting him for navigating through the complexities of contract negotiations. “I don’t want to go anywhere else,” Bateman recalled telling DeCosta, placing his trust in the system that ultimately paid off, showing he was a priority for the Ravens.
And why wouldn’t Bateman be a top priority? The young talent emerged as a key figure in Baltimore’s explosive offense last season, shedding any previous underachieving perceptions. In 2024, Bateman became the league’s premier deep threat, the only player to notch over 16 yards per reception alongside at least nine touchdown catches. Previously, as a 2021 first-round pick, Bateman had flashed potential, but last year, he truly shined, racking up 756 receiving yards and nine touchdowns despite being the secondary threat behind top receiver Flowers.
While the Cowboys’ pursuit of Bateman ultimately didn’t pan out, it’s clear why they were interested. As Bateman continues to evolve within the Ravens’ high-octane offense, fans in Baltimore can breathe a sigh of relief knowing he’s right where he wants to be—firmly planted on their roster.
