The Baltimore Ravens have constructed one of the most imposing offensive units in the NFL. Generally, one points to the team's league-leading rushing attack as the sole proponent for that dominance.
However, Lamar Jackson's continued growth as a passer makes the Ravens dangerous through the air as well. The collection of weapons around the two-time NFL MVP certainly helps that cause.
Thursday morning, Baltimore recognized one of those pieces with a new deal. The Ravens signed wide receiver Rashod Bateman to a contract extension, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The extension comes out to a three-year deal paying out just over $36 million with $20 million guaranteed. This comes on the heels of Bateman's impressive fourth season in the league where he posted 45 receptions for 756 yards and nine touchdowns.
Bateman was set to enter the final year of his rookie contract after Baltimore selected him in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Since then, Bateman has continually progressed and now become an integral part of the Ravens offense.
Two-year pro Zay Flowers has essentially taken over as the team's No. 1, totaling over 1,000 yards last season. But Bateman has carved out a spot alongside Flowers as a solid No. 2 for an admitted run-heavy system under Todd Monken.
Just a few years ago, Baltimore struggled to surround Jackson with a consistent group of pass catchers outside. With Bateman under contract for the foreseeable future, the Ravens' receiving corps should have a solid foundation through the coming years.