ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that the extension for Ravens WR Rashod Bateman was actually prompted by trade interest earlier this offseason. Fowler explains Bateman’s camp approached the Ravens about a new deal after the season was over.

Before signing him to a contract extension, the Baltimore Ravens were on the verge of parting ways with wide receiver Rashod Bateman.

The extension continues the organization’s trend of prioritizing deals with its own players. The Ravens signed running back Derrick Henry to a two-year, $30 million extension last month. They’re working on potential extensions with many other players, including quarterback Lamar Jackson, center Tyler Linderbaum and safety Kyle Hamilton.