Rashod Bateman's foot injury took a turn for the worse by suiting up for last Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Rashod Bateman originally suffered the foot injury in Week 4 against the Buffalo Bills. Bateman missed Baltimore's next two games then reaggravated the injury in his Week 7 return. On a short week of recovery, Bateman logged a full practice on Wednesday and was given the green light to play in Week 8's matchup with the Bucs. Rashod Bateman left the game early with 1 target, no catches, and devastating news.
Is Rashod Bateman playing in Week 9? Who can I replace Rashod Bateman with?
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Rashod Bateman was ruled out for the season on Thursday. After originally downplaying the severity of the injury, head coach John Harbaugh announced Bateman will undergo season-ending Lisfranc surgery.
Rashod Bateman's breakout season was derailed by the foot injury. In the three weeks before Bateman's injury issues began, the second-year receiver from Minnesota was averaging 28.3 yards per reception and had 2 touchdowns.
Rashod Bateman can comfortably be deemed an invalid fantasy option for the remainder of the season. Devin Duvernay and Demarcus Robinson will see an uptick in opportunities within the Baltimore offense while Bateman is sidelined.
Who Can I Replace Rashod Bateman With?
Devin Duvernay is owned in roughly half of the fantasy leagues on Sleeper, ESPN, and Yahoo. Duvernay's versatility makes him a great fantasy replacement for Bateman. Duvernay has scored a rushing touchdown, receiving touchdown, and kickoff return touchdown this season. Devin Duvernay should be the first replacement for Rashod Bateman.
Teammate Demarcus Robinson is another viable alternative. Robinson reeled in 6 of 8 targets last week in relief for Rashod Bateman. The longtime Kansas City Chief is a solid fantasy asset after receiving a boost in opportunities.
If neither Devin Duvernay nor Demarcus Robinson is available to replace Rashod Bateman, look for Joshua Palmer on your waiver wire. Palmer is a top-two wide receiver for the Chargers with Mike Williams sidelined for the extended future. Rookies Wan'Dale Robinson, Alec Pierce, and Jahan Dotson are other options to replace Rashod Bateman.