The Baltimore Ravens’ offense did little in Week 2. Up against the Saints, they watched a halftime lead collapse and couldn’t move the ball, ultimately losing 24-17. Zay Flowers’ absence didn’t help; the star wide receiver was sidelined after an explosive Week 1 performance. But that absence did benefit Rashod Bateman, who stepped comfortably into the WR1 role. If Flowers is forced to miss Week 3’s matchup with the Cowboys, is Bateman going to be a must-start in fantasy?
Baltimore pass catchers in Week 2
It’s hard to overstate how reliant the Ravens were on Bateman in Week 2. The 26-year-old played 93% of their snaps; no other Baltimore receiver got more than 55%. That snap-share dominance translated into receiving dominance: Bateman led the team in targets, catches, and receiving yards and caught the team’s only passing touchdown. His 21.8 PPR fantasy points made him an easy WR1 for the week, and has owners dreaming of more production in Week 3.
The matchup makes this even better. After allowing the most fantasy points per game to wide receivers in 2025, the Dallas Cowboys haven’t made drastic improvements to their defense. Over two games, they’ve struggled to cover top receivers. Isaiah Likely was the main problem in Week 1 against the Giants, but Malik Nabers was no slouch, catching six passes for 69 yards. Things got tricky for the Commanders as they navigated a rough Jayden Daniels injury, but Stefon Diggs remained productive, catching two touchdowns.
It’s clear the volume is there for Bateman, and opportunities will be available against this Cowboys defense. Does that make him a must-start on Sunday?
Start or Sit?
Unless your team is absolutely stacked, Bateman should be in your lineup. His target share will be tremendous regardless of the game script, and the touchdown upside is certainly there against this Cowboys defense. Don’t bump your top trusted receivers or FLEX players, but make sure Bateman is in there.
