3 Rashod Bateman trade destinations that the Ravens must consider

The Baltimore Ravens' offseason has barely started. Regardless, it feels likely that they'll trade wide receiver Rashod Bateman. The 26-year-old wideout had an unproductive posting, just 224 yards and two touchdowns. Fresh off a three-year $36 million contract extension, this wasn't the season Baltimore had hoped to see from him.

To make matters worse, earlier this week, Bateman made several cryptic statements via social media. While Bateman claimed he was hacked, when apologizing, he acknowledged that he agreed with some of the statements. The point is that he is clearly not happy, and a divorce is in the best interest of both parties.

After a down season, it's unlikely that Bateman would yield a solid return. However, simply getting off his contract would be beneficial to the Ravens. With that being said, here are three teams that that could want to roll the dice on Bateman.

3 Rashod Bateman trade destinations

New York Jets

The New York Jets have some of the league's most cap space and desperately need to upgrade their wide receiver core. Notably, Garrett Wilson led the team with 395 receiving yards despite playing in just seven games. It's safe to say the situation is dire for the Jets.

While the draft and/or free agency could be the Jets' preferred route to upgrade their flaw, a low-cost trade could be worthwhile as well. The Jets' quarterback situation is unclear, but they undoubtedly need to surround their next QB with more talent. Ultimately, the Jets could bolster a clear area of weakness while Bateman would be granted a bigger role in New York.

Los Angeles Chargers

There are perhaps no two teams with a deeper connection than the Ravens and the Los Angeles Chargers. Jesse Minter's hiring is just the latest example, and of course, he started his NFL career in Baltimore. Since the 2024 offseason, 14 Ravens players have become Chargers players either in free agency or via trade.

A big reason for this is that Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz worked in the Ravens' front office before taking this job with LA. Hortiz was a part of the front office when the Ravens drafted Bateman in the first-round back in 2021. It's fair to expect that Hortiz still views Bateman highly and would love a chance to buy low on him. While it was different circumstances, Hortiz traded for former Ravens first-round pick Odafe Oweh earlier this season.

Now, Bateman wouldn't have as many opportunities with the Chargers as he would with a team like the Jets. Still, Keenan Allen is a free agent, and the Chargers have a pass-heavy offense, so Bateman might be granted a bigger role anyway.

Dallas Cowboys

In the 2025 offseason, Bateman was nearly traded before he ultimately signed an extension with the Ravens. Per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Dallas Cowboys were one of the teams that displayed interest in Bateman. While I don't think other suitors, such as the New England Patriots or Green Bay Packers, would still be interested, I think the Cowboys could be, especially with the uncertain future of pending free agent George Pickens.

If Pickens departs in free agency, Bateman feels like a logical trade target for the Cowboys. Both players are X receivers and gifted athletes. Of course, Pickens is a higher caliber player. Nevertheless, Bateman could be a worthy upside gamble for a low trade price if Pickens finds a new home in free agency.