Potential 1st Round Pick Rashod Bateman Opts-Out of Season

Rashod Bateman

Another big domino has fallen in the world of college football with players opting out of the season due to Covid-19. Perhaps the biggest name yet comes from the University of Minnesota’s Rashod Bateman. 

He announced earlier this morning that he would be opting out of the 2020 season. In a video he posted via Twitter he declared for the 2021 NFL Draft as well.

“Unfortunately, in the light of the uncertainty around health and safety in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, I have to set my wishes aside for the wellness of family, community and beyond.” – Rashod Bateman



Last season Bateman was not only a First Team All-Big Ten selection, he was the Big Ten Wide Receiver of the Year. He recorded 60 receptions for 1,219 yards and 11 touchdowns last season for the Golden Gophers.

According to my 2021 NFL Draft rankings, he was my No. 3 WR and my No. 21 overall. There is no question to me that Rashod Bateman is a 1st Round talent but only time can tell if this will affect his draft stock.

Rashod Bateman