In a recent press conference, Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta addressed the ongoing situation surrounding wide receiver Rashod Bateman, who was arrested earlier this offseason. DeCosta confirmed that the team is still awaiting the results of the NFL's investigation into the incident.
Bateman's arrest occurred in June in Georgia, where he was taken into custody on charges that include family violence battery and reckless conduct, both classified as misdemeanors, along with a felony charge of criminal damage to property. DeCosta expressed disappointment over the situation, stating, "It’s obviously something that we’re very disappointed about, that we have to deal with these kind of things right now." He emphasized that the organization was proactive in handling the matter, having contacted the league immediately after learning of the incident.
DeCosta noted, "In these matters we just really kind of sit back and wait for the league and for the authorities to kind of tell us what’s going on. Have no indication how long that’s going to take." This statement highlights the uncertainty surrounding the timeline of the investigation and its potential implications for Bateman's status with the team.
During the same press conference, DeCosta also discussed the Ravens' kicking situation as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The Ravens recently signed kicker Jake Moody to their practice squad, which could signal a shift in the team's kicking strategy following a less-than-stellar performance from starter Tyler Loop during the preseason. Loop converted only four of his seven field goal attempts in the exhibition games, prompting DeCosta to state, "We got to make kicks. Fresh set of legs to look at, evaluate, compare, see how it all works out. In the end, it’s a performance business." This indicates the team's commitment to ensuring they have reliable options at the kicker position as they head into the regular season.
In addition to the issues surrounding Bateman and the kicking game, DeCosta expressed optimism regarding the contract situation of star quarterback Lamar Jackson. Although a new contract was not finalized during the offseason, the Ravens were able to restructure Jackson's existing deal, which has two years remaining. DeCosta's comments suggest that the organization is still hopeful about reaching a long-term agreement with their franchise quarterback.
Lastly, DeCosta provided an encouraging update on defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike, who was not placed on injured reserve when the Ravens finalized their 53-man roster. Madubuike, who missed a significant portion of the previous season due to a neck injury, is expected to return at some point in the first four weeks of the season. DeCosta remarked, "I’m as encouraged now as I’ve ever been about Nnamdi. Getting him back has been incredible," signaling a positive outlook for the team's defensive line as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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