As the clock struck 11 p.m. Friday at the Ravens' facility in Owings Mills, and the third round of the NFL draft was wrapping up in Detroit, GM Eric DeCosta made the team's final pick of the day at No. 93 overall. Despite several intriguing wide receivers still on the board, like Oregon speedster Troy Franklin, Central Florida's Javon Baker, and towering 6-foot-6 Florida State standout Johnny Wilson, the Ravens went for Penn State outside linebacker Adisa Isaac instead.
The Ravens' wide receiver group is paper-thin beyond their top three of second-year star Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and veteran Nelson Agholor. With Baltimore's needs in mind, DeCosta explained, "What you have to try to do in these situations is look at your needs and who's the best player available, and then what are your chances of getting a player at these other positions in these coming rounds."
Baltimore has fourth-round picks at Nos. 113 and 130 overall, so there's a chance they could snag a receiver on Saturday to bolster the team. DeCosta is especially thrilled about Bateman's return this year, saying, "I think his best football is ahead of him. To get him back was kind of a no-brainer."
Bateman, drafted 27th overall in 2021, has faced injury challenges, missing games due to foot surgery and groin issues. Despite setbacks, his elite speed, route running, and hands make him a valuable asset. The Ravens extended his contract, indicating their confidence in his abilities.
The Ravens didn't draft a receiver in the first two days, opting instead for Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, Washington offensive tackle Roger Rosengarten, and edge rusher Isaac. This decision reflects their belief in Bateman and their strategic approach based on analytics and player availability.
"It's something he wanted. It's something we wanted," DeCosta said about Bateman's extension. "I just feel like he's a really, really talented player who's had some bad luck with injuries."
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