Pro Football Rumors
Tyler Linderbaum represented not only the top 2026 free agent for the Ravens but the No. 1 option on the open market from PFR’s Top 50 list. Interest was expressed in a new Baltimore deal, but one was never close to materializing.
The Ravens were not in position to keep Linderbaum at any point this offseason, Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic writes. Once the three-time Pro Bowler became eligible to speak to other teams immediately prior to the onset of free agency, a Baltimore agreement was not feasible. GM Eric DeCosta said shortly before the start of free agency that a market-topping offer had been submitted in this case.
Linderbaum wound up inking a three-year, $81MM deal with the Raiders. That pact is worth an average of $27MM per year, smashing the previous record for AAV at the center position (which was $18MM). Linderbaum secured full guarantees for the first two years, and his 2028 compensation will fully lock in one year early. Instead of making that level of commitment, the Ravens quickly pivoted to another priority in free agency.
Baltimore worked out an agreement with Trey Hendrickson shortly after the team’s trade agreement with the Raiders for Maxx Crosby fell through. The former Bengals sack artist took a pact averaging $28MM per season, and DeCosta and Co. will certainly hope for an investment nearly identical to the one made by Vegas in Linderbaum will pay dividends. Pass rush was a major area of need for the Ravens entering the offseason, and Hendrickson will be counted on to provide a major boost in that regard.
Of course, Linderbaum’s departure has left Baltimore with a notable vacancy along the offensive line which continues to linger. That unit was a priority early in free agency and the draft, with John Simpson being brought back during free agency and Vega Ioane being selected 14th overall in the draft. Both guards are on track to serve as starters in 2026, although the center position is still a question mark in Baltimore’s case.
Free agency included the departure of other Ravens, with many electing to reunite with head coach John Harbaugh by signing with the Giants. Linderbaum was viewed as being out of New York’s price range, though, as he was for a number of other suitors. Teams like the Chargers and Bears were naturally interested, but the Raiders won out thanks to an unprecedented financial commitment. Remaining in Baltimore on that lucrative contract was never under consideration given the traction (or lack thereof) during negotiations leading up to free agency.
