With The First Pick
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2021 NFL Draft: Rashod Bateman leads prospects to watch in Minnesota vs. Michigan

By JD Bagley

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 30: Rashod Bateman #13 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers carries the ball against the Wisconsin Badgers during the first quarter of the game at TCF Bank Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Bateman scored a touchdown on the play. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - NOVEMBER 30: Rashod Bateman #13 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers carries the ball against the Wisconsin Badgers during the first quarter of the game at TCF Bank Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Bateman scored a touchdown on the play. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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2021 NFL Draft
2021 NFL Draft prospect Rashod Bateman (Photo by Nuccio DiNuzzo/Getty Images) /

WR Rashod Bateman, Minnesota

In another loaded wide receiver class, Rashod Bateman is considered to be among the best. Playing opposite of Tyler Johnson last season, Bateman put up 60 receptions, 1,219 yards and 11 touchdowns in 13 games. With Johnson out of the fold now as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, don’t be surprised to see Bateman put up even better numbers on a per game basis with the shortened season.

In his third year with quarterback Tanner Morgan, their chemistry should be stronger than ever as they both have their eyes set on a future in the NFL. Bateman has almost everything you want in a #1 receiver at the next level; even with his limited 6-foot-2 and 210 pound frame, his contested catch ability is elite. He has exceptional hands and his concentration at the catch point is phenomenal.

Bateman’s long speed isn’t anything to write home about, but it’s not a major concern because he excels in so many other areas. Despite that lack of speed, Bateman has no issues getting in and out of his breaks in an efficient manner. At this point Bateman is a first round draft pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, and with a solid season, he can rise even higher than just the top-32.

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