Tyler Linderbaum’s Contract Extension Still in Limbo - But the Ravens Can’t Afford to Wait Much Longer
The Baltimore Ravens have built their offensive identity around physicality, precision, and consistency in the trenches - and few players embody that more than Tyler Linderbaum. The All-Pro center, now in the final year of his rookie deal, has been everything the Ravens hoped for when they drafted him.
Yet, despite his clear value to the franchise, a long-term extension still hasn’t been finalized. And with each passing week, the situation becomes more puzzling.
Linderbaum is one of five former Iowa Hawkeyes named to this year’s Pro Bowl rosters, joining Cooper DeJean, George Kittle, Jack Campbell, and Tristan Wirfs. That’s a testament to the kind of NFL talent Kirk Ferentz’s program continues to produce - and Linderbaum’s presence among that group is no surprise. He’s been a rock in the middle of Baltimore’s offensive line, anchoring one of the league’s most balanced and efficient offenses.
But when the Ravens declined to pick up his fifth-year option back in April, it raised more than a few eyebrows - especially in Iowa circles. It wasn’t a sign of doubt in Linderbaum’s ability, but rather a financial chess move.
Picking up that option would’ve triggered a hefty payday right away. By holding off, the Ravens bought themselves time to negotiate a multi-year deal that fits their long-term cap structure.
General manager Eric DeCosta has made it clear that the organization wants to keep Linderbaum in Baltimore for the long haul. The messaging has been consistent: this is a player they value, and they’re working toward a deal. But as of now, no agreement has been reached.
Linderbaum, for his part, isn’t making any waves. He’s staying focused on football and letting his agent handle the business side of things - a smart move for a player who knows his worth and understands the process.
There’s reason for optimism. The Ravens have recently locked up other key players - tight end Mark Andrews and defensive tackle Travis Jones both signed extensions before hitting free agency. That’s a sign that the front office is moving with intention, even if the timing isn’t always immediate.
According to contract analysts like Spotrac’s Michael Ginnitti, Linderbaum’s next deal could land in the neighborhood of four years and $77 million - a figure that would place him firmly among the NFL’s elite centers. And frankly, that’s right where he belongs. His combination of intelligence, toughness, and athleticism has made him a cornerstone of Baltimore’s offensive line, and it’s hard to imagine this unit operating at the same level without him.
The Ravens have a history of rewarding homegrown talent, especially when that talent plays a critical role in the team’s success. Linderbaum fits that mold to a tee. He’s a three-time Pro Bowler, a tone-setter in the locker room, and a key reason why Baltimore’s offense continues to thrive in both the run and pass game.
Letting a player like that walk would be a rare misstep for a front office that usually gets it right. The clock’s ticking, but the path forward is clear: lock up Linderbaum and keep the foundation strong.