VIDEO: Rashod Bateman Already Progressing in Injury Rehab

The Baltimore Ravens had high hopes for rookie wideout Rashod Bateman ahead of the 2021 NFL season. After all, they used a first-round pick at this year's draft on him to help improve a passing attack that averaged the least number of passing yards per game in 2020 (171.9). Unfortunately, Bateman's immediate NFL debut was put in jeopardy after suffering a groin injury last week.

Fortunately, there's some great news for Ravens fans. On Friday, Bateman uploaded a video to his Instagram account of him rehabbing through his injury. The 21-year-old was running routes and making catches, albeit at a slower pace without equipment.

Rashod Bateman Injury Update

Even if the video isn't of Bateman in full equipment or at a team practice, it's still an encouraging sign. The fact that he's back on his feet and moving means that he's getting closer and closer to rejoining the team.

As mentioned earlier, the Ravens had one of the worst aerial games in the league last season. They finished at the bottom of the NFL when it came to both passing attempts (25.9) and yards per game.

Bringing in a playmaker like Bateman was supposed to shake things up, especially with the skills that he displayed at the collegiate level. The two-time All-Big Ten wideout caught 96 balls in his final 18 games with the Minnesota Golden Gophers for 1,691 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. If he can bring that type of play to Baltimore going forward, the team's passing game should see a significant boost.

The Ravens project to be a top-5 team in the NFL this season. They're currently tied with the San Francisco 49ers for the fifth-best odds (+1400) to win Super Bowl 56, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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