Former Iowa Hawkeye Signs Record-Setting NFL Deal with Raiders

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Tyler Linderbaum, a former Iowa Hawkeye and native of Solon, Iowa, has agreed to a record-setting 3-year, $81 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders, making him the highest-paid center in the NFL. The deal includes $60 million in guaranteed money, far exceeding the previous highest-paid center, Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs, whose deal averages $18 million per year.

Why it matters

Linderbaum's massive contract highlights the high value teams are placing on elite offensive line talent, especially at the center position. The Raiders are hoping Linderbaum can shore up their offensive line and protect their new quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, whom they plan to draft with the first overall pick.

The details

Since being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2022, Linderbaum has become one of the most reliable centers in the league, making the Pro Bowl in three of his four seasons. The Raiders are flush with cap space and can afford the record-setting deal, which includes $60 million in guaranteed money and another $21 million in incentives.

• Linderbaum was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2022.
• Linderbaum has made the Pro Bowl in three of his four NFL seasons.

What’s next

The Raiders will look to Linderbaum to anchor their offensive line and protect their new quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, whom they plan to draft with the first overall pick.