The Baltimore Ravens are facing a pivotal offseason decision regarding their standout center, Tyler Linderbaum, as he approaches free agency. General Manager Eric DeCosta has made it clear that keeping the three-time Pro Bowler is a top priority for the organization, although negotiations are still in progress.
On the latest episode of “The Inner Circle Podcast,” DeCosta emphasized the importance of Linderbaum to the team, both as a player and a leader. “We’ve got some work to do on Tyler Linderbaum’s contract," he shared.
"We strongly hope to have him back. He’s a great player for us and a great leader.”
However, the financial aspect of Linderbaum’s contract presents a challenge. The Ravens opted not to pick up his fifth-year option, not due to performance issues but because of the steep cost.
The option would have cost the team $23.4 million in 2026, a figure that far exceeds the current market for centers. Similarly, using the franchise tag would also be financially burdensome.
As it stands, Creed Humphrey is the highest-paid center in the league at $18 million annually. Linderbaum is expected to surpass this figure, potentially setting a new standard for his position. With the fifth-year option and franchise tag off the table, Baltimore is under pressure to finalize a long-term deal before free agency kicks off on March 11.
If no agreement is reached, Linderbaum will become one of the most sought-after free agents. Given the high demand for offensive linemen across the league, it’s likely another team could meet his contract demands.
DeCosta also mentioned plans to address the guard position this offseason, with Emery Jones Jr. potentially vying for a starting role in 2026. However, securing Linderbaum remains crucial to maintaining the offensive line's stability.
NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah has hinted at Linderbaum’s potential impact on the center market in free agency. During a pre-combine conference call, Jeremiah noted the league-wide demand for Linderbaum, saying he “would love to be Linderbaum’s agent.” Teams in need of solidifying their offensive line could offer significant contracts.
A first-round pick from the University of Iowa in 2022, Linderbaum has consistently proven his worth, earning a remarkable 83.1 PFF run-blocking grade in 2025, ranking him fourth among centers. He has expressed his desire to remain with the Ravens, stating he “absolutely” wants to return.