Ravens give Rashod Bateman $37 million extension after explosive wideouts career-best season

The Ravens’ top deep threat is not leaving the nest anytime soon. Star wideout Rashod Bateman agreed to a three-year, $36.75 million contract extension Thursday worth $20 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, putting him under contract through the 2029 season.“Rashod made a big jump last year and we are excited to watch him this season,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta told the Ravens’ website following the news of Bateman’s extension.“He’s a young playmaker who is an important piece of our offense.”Bateman, 25, had a strong campaign last season, hauling in 45 receptions for a career-high 756 yards and a professional-best nine touchdowns.His explosiveness — an average of 16.8 yards per reception — makes him an invaluable part of the offense with two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson under center.Before Thursday’s extension, Bateman played on a two-year, $12.5 million contract.A first-round pick out of Minnesota in 2021, Bateman missed the first five games of his rookie season as he recovered from hernia surgery.

The injury woes continued in 2022 when he underwent season-ending surgery in November of that year due to a foot issue.The Ravens have been taking care of their playmakers this offseason.Last month, they awarded running back Derrick Henry a two-year, $30 million contract after an explosive first season in Baltimore.He rushed for 1,921 yards in 17 regular-season games and scored 16 touchdowns.The Ravens are coming off a 12-5 season and a Divisional Round playoff berth.Baltimore fell to Buffalo in a 27-25 thriller in January.The Bills will host the Ravens in their season opener on “Sunday Night Football” Sept.7....