Gophers in the NFL: Rashod Bateman shows sparks in 'fun' debut for Ravens

Oct. 18—ESPN commentator Louis Riddick hyped new Ravens receiver Rashod Bateman before his NFL debut Sunday.

"It's really going to get hot for secondaries because this kid is the truth," Riddick said last week.

After missing the first five games with a groin injury, Bateman had four receptions for 29 yards against the Chargers on Sunday. Each catch went for a first down.

Highlight: Former #Gophers receiver Rashod Bateman had four receptions in his NFL debut with the Ravens on Sunday. Each went for a first down, including some impressive yards-after-catch here with a stiff arm, spin and cutback to move the chains. pic.twitter.com/ozRPzVMLph

— Andy Greder (@andygreder) October 18, 2021

"It was an incredible, fun experience," said Bateman, the Gophers' first first-round draft pick since 2006. "The Ravens Flock made the atmosphere special, but I think my teammates made it more special. They've always had my back through it all, and because of them, I was comfortable and was able to go out and perform. It was fun."

While Bateman made his on-field debut, seventh-year veteran Maxx Williams had his season officially end after an ugly hit to his knee in Week 5. The former Gophers tight end from Waconia had 16 receptions for 193 yards and one touchdown this season for the Cardinals and was on pace to set career highs in all three categories.

"I just want to say thank you to everyone who has reached out with support!" Williams tweeted. "Your thoughts and prayers mean more to me and my family than words can explain! This is just a speed bump not a road block for my career! Looking forward to being back and stronger next year!"

On Saturday, current Gophers tight end Brevyn Spann-Ford scored his first touchdown of the season and celebrated by stretching out his arms like Williams did during his playing days in maroon and gold.

Spann-Ford tweeted pictures of him and Williams doing it, asking, "Is this how you do it big bro?"

OTHER FORMER GOPHERS

Jaguars linebacker Damien Wilson had a season-high 12 tackles against the Dolphins. ... The Panthers released running back Rodney Smith before the Vikings game. Coach Matt Ruhle said the team "just decided to move on." Smith had five receptions and no carries in two games this season. ... Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin had two tackles in a season-high 12 defensive snaps. ... Packers linebacker De'Vondre Campbell had six tackles. ... Bucs safety Antoine Winfield Jr. missed a second straight game with a concussion. ... Washington cornerback Benjamin St-Juste had two tackles in 49 percent of defensive snaps against the Chiefs.