Commanders Rumored to Heavily Pursue $22M Per Year Free Agent Center

Washington believed to have serious interest in Baltimore Ravens' Tyler Linderbaum if he hits the open market.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Washington Commanders are reportedly expected to make an aggressive push to sign Baltimore Ravens pending free agent center Tyler Linderbaum if he does not re-sign with the Ravens. Linderbaum is considered one of the top free agents available and could command a record-setting contract for a center, with some reports indicating he is seeking $25 million per year.

Why it matters

The Commanders have a clear need at center after recently cutting Tyler Biadasz, and signing Linderbaum would provide a significant upgrade at the position. Linderbaum is a three-time Pro Bowler, and landing him would help solidify Washington's offensive line and protect young quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The details

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, there is a belief around the league that the Commanders will "heavily pursue" Linderbaum if he hits free agency. Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer reports that Linderbaum's camp is seeking $25 million per year, though a more realistic figure is likely $22-23 million annually. That would reset the market for centers, as the current high is $18 million per year for the Chiefs' Creed Humphrey.

  • Linderbaum is set to become a free agent in March 2026.

The players

Tyler Linderbaum

A pending free agent center for the Baltimore Ravens who is considered one of the top players available on the open market.

Jayden Daniels

The young quarterback for the Washington Commanders who would benefit from having an elite center like Linderbaum protecting him.

Tyler Biadasz

The veteran center who was recently cut by the Commanders, creating a need at the position.

Creed Humphrey

The Kansas City Chiefs center who currently holds the record for highest-paid center at $18 million per year.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Should he not re-sign with the Ravens, there is a belief among teams that the Commanders will heavily pursue C Tyler Linderbaum in free agency.”

— Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider (Sporting News)

“I've heard his camp is shooting for $25 million. And even if they don't quite get there— $22 million or $23 million might be more realistic — there are plenty of potential suitors in the Lions, Bears, Giants, Browns and Chargers to drive the Ravens to a point where they might not be comfortable.”

— Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated Reporter (Sporting News)

What’s next

Linderbaum will become an unrestricted free agent in March 2026, at which point the Commanders and other teams will be able to officially negotiate with him.

The takeaway

The Commanders' reported interest in Linderbaum highlights their commitment to improving their offensive line and protecting their young quarterback Jayden Daniels. Signing Linderbaum would be a major coup, but it would also come at a steep price, potentially resetting the market for elite centers in the NFL.