4 Baltimore Ravens we can safely call busts after the 2023 season

On a large scale, there's not too much to get upset about regarding the Baltimore Ravens' 2024 season. Superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson was named MVP once again, the team won 14 games, and they made it to an AFC Championship game for the first time in the Jackson era.

However, if you're of a more negative persuasion, it's easy to poke holes in how the season ended. Between the dud in the championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs and the fact over 20 Ravens from last year are not scheduled to become free agents, things might look more glum than they did a month ago.

Baltimore's front office has typically been very prudent and forward-thinking when it comes to admitting mistakes on their roster. Rather than trying to force a square peg into a round hole, they'll cast aside underperformers and try to replace them with a depth signing or draft pick.

Eric DeCosta knows he can't make too many mistakes as he tries to win a championship with Jackson in his prime. He needs to admit these four players were busts last year (for a variety of reasons) and realize that moving on from the entire quartet of them will be in his best interest.

4 Baltimore Ravens who were busts in 2023 season

4. WR Rashod Bateman

Bateman entered his third season in the NFL firmly in make-or-break territory, as a somewhat encouraging rookie season was followed by an injury-plagued sophomore campaign. Based on the numbers, Bateman remains more of a question mark than a viable NFL starter.

Bateman recorded just 32 catches for 367 yards despite playing in all but one game, showing that he never quite took to Todd Monken's offense. With Zay Flowers coming close to approaching Bateman's total output in three seasons during his rookie year, it's becoming clear he never will be a primary target for Jackson.

The Baltimore Ravens must admit Rashod Bateman struggled mightily

It would be very foolish for Baltimore to pick up his fifth-year option, especially when they are paying Jackson big money and will commit resources to more productive young players like Justin Madubuike and Kyle Hamilton. There's a good chance Bateman's time in Baltimore is coming to an end.

Bateman still has all the tools needed to eventually become a first-rate deep threat in the NFL, but the Ravens haven't been able to get the most out of him due to untimely drops, injuries, and plain old ineffectiveness against professional man-cover cornerbacks. Will they give him one more shot in 2024 or relegate him to a minor role?

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