Should I Start Rashod Bateman?

Saturday, October 10, 6:25 AM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (shoulder) caught both targets for 46 yards against the Tennessee Titans in Week 4 and is primed to resume his role as the team's WR2 behind Zay Flowers (foot) in Atlanta. However, backup quarterback Tyler Huntley will start against the Falcons Sunday night with Lamar Jackson (ankle) ruled out. Last week, Bateman saw a season-low 47% of the Ravens' offensive snaps, a sharp decline from his 93% and 88% snap share in Weeks 2 and 3, respectively. He also ran fewer routes (17) than fellow wideout Devontez Walker (23), who benefited from a higher 69% snap share. Bateman did not officially miss any plays against the Titans due to injury, so his presence on Wednesday's injury report with a limited practice was somewhat unexpected. Bateman wore a red no-contact jersey Thursday, according to local press, but officially logged full practices Thursday and Friday. He has no injury designation heading into the weekend. Although Bateman may face more competition from Walker, he has been familiar with Huntley since 2021, and the two connected for an 18-yard reception in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter last week. Bateman will face the Falcons' defense in Week 5, which ranks 30th against the pass, giving up 264.8 yards per game, and is the fifth-best fantasy matchup for opposing wide receivers. The Ravens are a road underdog Sunday night in Atlanta, so Bateman should get opportunities as Baltimore tries to keep pace with the Falcons. Bateman is solidly in WR4/Flex territory for deep leagues and could rise to low-end WR2 consideration in the off-chance Zay Flowers, who is currently questionable, misses Sunday night's game.