The Baltimore Ravens are working toward a complete revamp this offseason. They already started it with the coaching staff, firing John Harbaugh early in the offseason, and hiring Jesse Minter just a few days ago.
For now, most of the attention is focused on who Minter brings on for his coaching staff. There is already a ton of speculation on potential offensive and defensive coordinators, and the 42-year-old is already adding some position coaches. However, wide receiver Rashod Bateman took all the spotlight on Monday.
Bateman was at the center of controversy, as posts were made to his backup Instagram account that highlighted his frustration with how his 2025 season went. He later apologized, stating he was hacked.
Even if he was hacked, it's a controversy that Minter was undoubtedly hoping to avoid in his first week as Baltimore's head coach. Unsurprisingly, it’s Bateman causing the uproar. This isn’t the first time his social media activity caused drama. His posts in 2023 created similar issues.
After earning an extension in the 2025 offseason, Bateman disappointed in the ensuing regular season. He had just 19 receptions for 224 yards and two touchdowns. His utilization was certainly questionable, and the pass protection issues didn’t help either. However, it’s obvious the Ravens need more wide receiver help.
It also wouldn’t be a shock if Bateman were traded this offseason. If that’s the case, there would immediately be a dire need for a wide receiver opposite of two-time Pro Bowler Zay Flowers.
Ravens must find Lamar Jackson more wide receiver help this offseason
Even if Bateman stays, he may not be a capable number two option next year. Outside of his encouraging 2024 performance, he’s been largely inconsistent. General manager Eric DeCosta must find someone who can be a more trusted weapon.
If DeCosta looks to free agency to address the wide receiver position, plenty of options jump out. The front office may not blow the bank for a player like George Pickens, but guys like Romeo Doubs, Alec Pierce, or Jauan Jennings could make sense.
The draft is always an option, too. Right now, receiver isn’t the most pressing need. However, if Bateman ends up leaving, it could warrant a top choice in the first or second round. USC’s Makai Lemon and Washington’s Denzel Boston have been connected to Baltimore the most thus far in the draft process. Both would instantly be upgrades behind Flowers.
Regardless of what happens with Bateman, it’s clear quarterback Lamar Jackson needs more help on the outside.