ESPN: The Ravens blocked the Cowboys
Cowboys Have Apparently Said They Would Like to Trade for Rashod Bateman
George Pickens, a wide receiver with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was acquired by the Dallas Cowboys last week. Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports claims that the Cowboys pursued Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman before acquiring Pickens.
Sources: The Cowboys considered a deal for #Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman when they were searching for a receiver. After those negotiations failed, Dallas finally agreed to a post-draft trade with the #Steelers for George Pickens.
The hunt for a new receiver by Dallas was a Twitter: pic.twitter.com/87QX5rIqcq
Schultz, Jordan (@Schultz_Report) 9 May 2025
Prior to the 2025 NFL Draft, Schultz said the discussions “didn’t go far.”
According to Jon Alfano of Sports Illustrated, it was a smart move to keep Bateman in the lineup.
“It’s a good thing that the talks with Dallas didn’t get very far, because there is no reason why Baltimore should consider trading Bateman any time soon,” Alfano stated. Indeed, the Minnesota first-round selection in 2021 had a poor start to his career, catching just 93 catches in his first three seasons for 1,167 yards and four touchdowns. But what matters is that he’s here now, and he fits right in as Baltimore’s No. 2 receiver after 45 catches for 756 yards and nine touchdowns last season.
Pickens, who has one year left on his deal and will be seeking a large contract, was acquired in exchange for a 2026 third-round choice and a 2027 sixth-round selection. Another justification Alfano gives for maintaining Bateman is his contract.
“Last offseason, the 25-year-old signed a two-year, $12.9 million extension to keep him in Baltimore through the 2026 season, which many questioned at the time, but now looks like a bargain,” wrote Alfano. “Considering his output, he presently ranks 45th among receivers in terms of average value, and if he keeps getting better, he will appear much better. The Ravens’ decision to reject the Cowboys’ trade offer is encouraging because they should follow like if another club approaches.
