Bateman expected to play, Watkins a GTD

Ravens WR Rashod Bateman (groin) is expected to play vs. the Vikings today, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. WR Sammy Watkins, meanwhile, is a game-time decision with his hamstring injury. Rapoport adds that Watkins has a "good shot to go." Watkins isn't a viable Week 9 fantasy play, but his return would add downside to Bateman

The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec highlighted WR Rashod Bateman among his "stock up" players through the 1st week of training camp. "He consistently made plays in all areas on the field and cut out the drops that were happening too often in minicamps," Zrebiec wrote. "The 2021 first-round pick has a no-nonsense and business-like demeanor." Bateman has a massive opportunity in 2022 with the departure of WR Marquise Brown and his 146 targets from a year ago. He's an attractive target at his 7th-round ADP.

Per beat writer Jeff Zrebiec, the Ravens believe WR Rashod Bateman is “ready to break out.” That’s clearly not a stretch, as Baltimore just dealt Marquise Brown after using a Round 1 pick on Bateman in the 2021 draft. Zrebiec adds, however, that the Ravens will “likely” add a veteran WR “at some point.” We’d bet against any available veteran significantly altering Bateman’s 2022 role. But there are some intriguing names still available, most notably Julio Jones and Will Fuller.

NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks considers Ravens WR Rashod Bateman a top breakout candidate for the 2022 season. Brooks calls the 2nd-year man a “nice fit” in the offense, adding that he can reach “8 to 10 targets” per game. We don’t disagree on the premise. But the latter point is perhaps a stretch; 8 targets per game adds up to 136 over a full season. Only 11 WRs hit that mark in 2021. Beyond that, the Ravens — minus Marquise Brown — simply don’t project for fantasy-friendly pass volume. For fantasy purposes, Bateman’s best drafted as a WR3 with upside.

Ravens WR Rashod Bateman is striking an optimistic tone following a tough rookie season. "I do feel comfortable," Bateman said this past week. "The NFL was a big mental step for me. Just being here now I feel way more comfortable, way more relaxed. I know what to expect. I know how to move. I'm just excited for Year 2. I'm excited to be healthy. I'm excited to do the things I know I can do.” Bateman missed 5 early-season games following offseason groin surgery, his first missed games ever as a football player. Now healthy, the hope is that a year 2 breakout is around the corner. That might be tough if Marquise Brown and Mark Andrews stay healthy, but at only 22, Bateman remains an enticing dynasty asset. He cracks WR3 range in our Dynasty Rankings.

Ravens WR Rashod Bateman (groin) is active for today’s game against the Vikings. WR Sammy Watkins (hamstring) is inactive. That makes Bateman easier to trust in fantasy lineups, although his groin issue still presents some risk.