Everybody in Baltimore still believes in a Rashod Bateman breakout

Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman has faced a challenging few months recovering from last year's Lisfranc foot surgery and on top of everything the wideout has had to deal with a recent hamstring injury this season.

However, Bateman has now played in four consecutive games since returning from the hamstring setback, and Head Coach John Harbaugh believes that Bateman's improved health should lead him toward a breakout throughout the second half of the season.

Harbaugh said in his Monday press conference that his confidence in Bateman is not solely based on the receiver's abilities but on his fitness of late.

The coach noted Bateman's consistency in practices, allowing him to become more acquainted with the offense of new OC Todd Monken, which in turn has seemingly helped the wideout to refine his route running and compete effectively for receptions.

"It's not confidence in his ability, he's always been very confident. It's confidence in his health. The fact he's been able to stack practices and get a feel in the offense, catch balls, and run routes and compete for balls."

- John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens

While Bateman had limited opportunities in the passing attack on Sunday in the win at Arizona, he maximized his impact by catching both of his two targets for 34 yards while adding 18 yards on the ground

Considering the struggles of veteran receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Nelson Agholor, having a productive Bateman around is going to be a key for the Ravens if they truly want to become legitimate Super Bowl contenders come January.

The Ravens spent tons of money on OBJ and Agholor but so far the production has been mediocre, to say the least. Only rookie WR Zay Flowers has helped Lamar Jackson along with veteran tight end Mark Andrews.

Baltimore decided to pass on adding any offensive weapon before the NFL deadline, so there seems to be a growing confidence in and expectations for Bateman truly exploding in the next few weeks. We can only hope!

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