As the NFL Draft approached, the Dallas Cowboys actively explored options to enhance their offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott. This search included trade discussions with the Pittsburgh Steelers, which eventually resulted in the acquisition of wide receiver George Pickens. However, Rashod Bateman, another prominent receiver from the AFC North, was also reportedly on the Cowboys’ radar during these talks.
Rashod Bateman Acknowledges Dallas Interest but Opts to Stay with Ravens
Rashod Bateman recently signed a three-year contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens, solidifying his place on the Lamar Jackson-led team. He confirmed his awareness of Dallas’s trade interest but expressed gratitude for Baltimore’s commitment to retain him. Bateman revealed that Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta made him a priority during contract negotiations, which influenced his decision to remain in Baltimore.
That’s the first thing I told him: I don’t want to go anywhere else. ‘I know you’ve got a lot of stuff to work through and we’ll figure it out when we figure it out,’
Bateman said, via TheAthletic.com.
It took time, but … To be a priority for him in that way is important. He shows he values me.
—Rashod Bateman
Final Outcome: Cowboys Secure Pickens While Ravens Retain Bateman
Ultimately, the Dallas Cowboys bolstered their receiving corps by acquiring George Pickens from the Steelers, while the Baltimore Ravens ensured Rashod Bateman’s stay with a new contract. This outcome reflects both teams’ strategic decisions to maintain or improve offensive firepower heading into the upcoming season.
The discussions highlight the competitive nature of NFL trading and how teams evaluate talent from the same division—the AFC North—to address their roster needs. For the Cowboys, adding Pickens aims to inject fresh weapons into their offense, while the Ravens’ retention of Bateman reinforces their existing strengths around quarterback Lamar Jackson. How this trade and contract extension impact each team’s success will become clearer as the season progresses.