Star Receiver Quietly Becoming Jackson’s Most Trusted Target

Baltimore, MD – May 24, 2025 – In a Ravens offense known for spreading the spotlight between tight ends, running backs, and the brilliance of Lamar Jackson, one wide receiver has quietly emerged as a player too valuable to overlook — even as his breakout year flew under the national radar.

After seasons plagued by injuries and inconsistency, the former first-round pick found his rhythm in 2024, finishing with career highs across the board: 45 receptions, 756 yards, and nine touchdowns. But beyond the stat line, his impact was more structural — moving chains, creating space, and becoming exactly the kind of target Jackson needs when a play breaks down.

“Bateman’s elevation to productive WR2 in 2024 counts as a true breakout,” wrote NFL.com’s Tom Blair, who named the receiver Baltimore’s “Most Underappreciated” player. “He recorded 35 receiving first downs, marking the first time in Jackson’s career that more than two Baltimore pass-catchers posted 30 or more.”

That kind of reliability in high-leverage moments is what earns trust in a quarterback’s eyes. It’s also what draws interest — as it did when the Dallas Cowboys inquired about a potential trade following an impressive Week 3 performance. The Ravens, unsurprisingly, said no.

One reason? Separation. According to Player Profiler, the receiver averaged 1.90 yards of separation per target — proof of his ability to win subtly, not just athletically. As high school receivers coach Mike Vannucci noted when reviewing tape of his route against Dallas, “It has to look like he’s trying to win to the opposite pylon,” and he sold it perfectly.

Now, with DeAndre Hopkins arriving in free agency and Zay Flowers continuing to thrive in the slot, the Ravens’ receiving corps is deeper than it has been in years. But far from being overshadowed, this receiver may be entering his prime at the perfect time. He brings balance — the technician in a group of explosive athletes, the link between scheme and instinct.

The only thing standing in his way now is health. If he stays on the field and continues to stretch defenses like he did in 2024 — where he averaged 13.9 yards per catch — the player Baltimore once drafted 27th overall may finally evolve into the WR1 they envisioned.

And Jackson? He’ll keep looking his way when it matters most.